Crystallize: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the process where a solid forms with a specific structure from a liquid solution or molten material. Often used in scientific, metaphoric, or intellectual contexts.

• The chemist waited for the solution to crystallize
• His ideas began to crystallize after months of research

Used when a substance becomes solid from a liquid or a more flexible state. Can also be used metaphorically to describe making an idea or plan firmer or more definite.

• The lava will solidify as it cools down
• They need to solidify their plan before moving forward

Describes the process where a liquid turns into a solid due to low temperature. Common in everyday language as well as scientific contexts.

• The lake will freeze over by December
• Make sure to freeze the leftovers, so they don't go bad

Refers to the process when gas changes to a liquid upon cooling. This term is common in scientific contexts, especially related to weather or physical state changes.

• Water vapor in the air will condense into droplets on a cold surface
• She managed to condense the report into a two-page summary

Use 'crystallize' when talking about making something clear or definitive, often an idea or a plan. It can be used both in literal and metaphorical contexts.

• His thoughts began to crystallize into a clear plan.
• The solution will crystallize as it cools.

Use 'develop' for describing the process of growth or progress in various contexts, such as ideas, projects, skills, or physical development.

• She worked hard to develop her communication skills.
• The company aims to develop new software solutions.

Use 'formulate' when you need to create or devise a detailed plan, method, or idea, often involving careful thought and precision.

• The scientists needed to formulate a hypothesis before conducting experiments.
• He took the time to formulate a strong argument for his case.

Use 'concretize' when you want to give a more solid or tangible form to an idea or concept, often in discussions involving abstract or theoretical topics.

• The architect needs to concretize his design sketch into detailed blueprints.
• Her theories were difficult to understand until she could concretize them with examples.