The word “realised” (the British English spelling of “realized”) is a verb with multiple meanings. Here are its synonyms and explanations for different contexts:
1. When “realised” means to become fully aware of something
- Synonym: Recognised
- Explanation: “Recognised” (or “recognized” in American English) means to identify something as already known or to admit the existence or truth of something. When you recognise a fact or a situation, you are consciously acknowledging it. For example, “She recognised the importance of her decision after careful thought.” It's similar to realising in that it involves an awareness, but “recognise” might imply a quicker identification, while “realise” can suggest a deeper or more gradual understanding.
- Example: He recognised the symptoms of the illness immediately, but it took him a while to realise the full implications of his condition.
- Synonym: Perceived
- Explanation: “Perceived” means to become aware of something through the senses or the mind. It implies a more intuitive or sensory way of understanding. For example, “She perceived a change in the atmosphere of the room.” Realising something can also involve a perception, but “perceived” focuses more on the initial act of sensing or apprehending, whereas “realised” can involve a more comprehensive understanding that follows perception.
- Example: The artist perceived the beauty of the landscape and then realised its potential as a subject for a painting.
- Synonym: Understood
- Explanation: “Understood” means to have grasped the meaning, nature, or importance of something. It's a more intellectual form of awareness. For example, “He understood the complex theory after hours of study.” Realising often includes an element of understanding, but it can also involve an emotional or practical recognition that goes beyond just intellectual comprehension.
- Example: She understood the instructions, but it was only when she started the task that she realised how difficult it would be.
2. When “realised” means to make something actual or bring something into reality
- Synonym: Achieved
- Explanation: “Achieved” means to successfully reach a goal or complete something through effort. For example, “He achieved his dream of becoming a professional athlete.” When you realise a plan or a vision, you are making it come true, much like achieving a particular objective. However, “realise” can have a broader sense of just making something happen, while “achieved” often implies a more purpose - driven accomplishment.
- Example: The company realised a new product design, and through hard work, they achieved high sales figures for it.
- Synonym: Accomplished
- Explanation: “Accomplished” is similar to “achieved” and means to successfully complete or bring about something. It often implies a sense of skill or finesse. For example, “She accomplished a difficult feat in the field of mathematics.” Realising a project can involve the accomplishment of various tasks and the overall success of the endeavour.
- Example: The team realised the construction of the building and accomplished it ahead of schedule.
- Synonym: Effectuated
- Explanation: “Effectuated” means to bring about or put into effect. It's a more formal term. For example, “The new policy was effectuated to improve the company's efficiency.” Realising a plan or an idea can involve effectuating the steps needed to make it a reality.
- Example: The entrepreneur realised his business plan by effectuating a series of well - thought - out marketing strategies.