Translation guide
The English verb 'realize' covers two main ideas: becoming aware of something (often suddenly) and making something real or actual. This guide focuses on the first, more common meaning for learners, and briefly covers the second.
To suddenly understand or become conscious of a fact, situation, or feeling.
The most common and natural way to say 'realize' in the sense of noticing or becoming aware of something. Often used when you suddenly see something you hadn't noticed before.
I realized my mistake.
I didn't realize he was lying.
Means 'understand' or 'come to know'. It can be used for 'realize' when the focus is on understanding a fact, often after some thought or explanation. Less sudden than 気づく.
I finally realized what he meant.
I realized I was wrong.
Very similar to 気づく, but slightly more formal or emphatic. Often used when you become aware of something through your own senses or intuition.
I realized it had gotten dark outside.
Implies a deeper, often spiritual or profound realization. Used for 'realize' in the sense of perceiving a hidden truth or becoming enlightened. More literary or philosophical.
He realized his destiny.
To make a plan, dream, or ambition come true; to actualize something.
The standard translation for 'realize' in the sense of making something happen or come true. Used for plans, dreams, goals, etc.
I'm working hard to realize my dream.
The plan was never realized.
Often used for wishes, dreams, or desires. Implies a more personal or emotional fulfillment.
To fully comprehend a situation or fact, often after a period of not knowing.
Means 'understand' or 'comprehend'. Used when you realize the meaning or significance of something. More formal than わかる.
He didn't realize the seriousness of the problem.
To realize something through bitter experience; to be made acutely aware of something, often unpleasant. Has a nuance of regret or painful awareness.
気づく is for sudden, often sensory awareness (noticing something). わかる is for understanding that comes from thinking or being told. Use 気づく when you spot something; use わかる when you figure something out.
I realized my wallet was gone. (sudden notice)
I finally realized after hearing the explanation. (understanding)
実現する only means 'realize' in the sense of making something happen. Using it for 'I realized my mistake' would be incorrect and confusing.
彼女はついに夢を叶えた。
She finally realized her dream.
I realized my own powerlessness.