realize

To suddenly understand or become aware of something.

• I realize my mistake now.
• He realized that his keys were missing.
• Did you realize how much it cost?

How to use it: realize that… (I realized that I had the wrong address.); realize how/what/why… (She realized how tired she was.)

Similar words: recognize, understand

Common phrases: realize a mistake, realize that something, begin to realize

To make a dream, plan, or idea happen in real life.

• She worked hard to realize her dream.
• The project finally realized his vision for the town.
• This course helps students realize their full potential.

Similar words: fulfill, achieve

Common phrases: realize a dream, realize your potential, realize an ambition

To receive money or make a profit from a sale or business activity.

• They realized a profit on the sale.
• The painting realized twice its expected price at auction.
• She realized a small gain by selling her shares.

Similar words: make, earn

Common phrases: realize a profit, realize a gain, realize a return

To sell valuable things or investments and turn them into money.

• The company must realize its assets.
• They realized their investments to pay the debt.
• The liquidator realized the property before dividing the money.

Similar words: liquidate, cash in

Common phrases: realize assets, realize an investment, realize the property