Understanding the Difference Between Realise and Realize

Realise vs. Realize: What’s the Difference?

The words realise and realize might look a little different, but they mean the same thing. They both mean to understand something or to make something real. The difference between them is where you are in the world!

History of the Words

The word “realize” comes from the Latin word “realis” meaning real. Over time, English speakers started using the word with a ‘z’ and an ‘s’. In the United States, people use “realize” with a ‘z’. In the United Kingdom and other places that use British English, people often spell it with an ‘s’, like “realise”.

How to Use Them

Even though the spelling is different, both words are used in the same way. They just follow different spelling rules in different countries.

• In American English, use realize.
• In British English, use realise.

Example Sentences with Realise

1. I realise that I left my book at home.
2. Do you realise how important this test is?
3. She didn’t realise it was already time to go.
4. We must realise our plans before the end of the year.
5. They will soon realise their dream of traveling the world.

Example Sentences with Realize

1. I realize I forgot to do my homework.
2. He doesn’t realize how much we care.
3. Can you realize your goals this year?
4. They need to realize the truth before it is too late.
5. We all realize that change is hard.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember which one to use, think of the word “zebra” for the American spelling with a ‘z’ (realize), and think of “sea” for the British spelling with an ‘s’ (realise).

Summary

In conclusion, whether you use realise or realize depends on the type of English you are writing in. If you are using American English, go with realize. If you are using British English, choose realise. Both words mean the same thing and are used in the same context.