Envisage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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envisage

[ษชnหˆvษชzษชdส’ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

future planning

To envisage is to imagine or visualize something in the future. It involves forming a mental picture of something that has not yet happened or is not currently present. This term is often used in discussions about goals, aspirations, or scenarios that one hopes to achieve or see materialize. The act of envisaging can also include predicting outcomes based on current circumstances, making it a useful tool in both personal and professional contexts.

Synonyms

anticipate, dream, foresee, imagine, visualize.

Examples of usage

  • She envisaged a bright future for her children.
  • The architect envisaged a modern design for the building.
  • He could hardly envisage himself living anywhere else.
  • They envisage a world where technology enhances daily life.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often use the word to describe a character's dreams or aspirations, helping readers visualize future events.
  • In poetry, the act of envisaging can enrich imagery, leading to deeper emotional connections with themes.

Psychology

  • Mental imagery, the process of envisioning scenes or outcomes, plays a crucial role in planning and problem-solving.
  • Studies show that mental visualization can enhance performance, as athletes often envisage their routines before competing.

Pop Culture

  • The term is frequently used in films to build suspenseโ€”characters envisage positive or negative futures that create tension.
  • In popular songs, artists often convey the notion of envisaging love or happiness, fostering relatable narratives.

Science

  • In scientific research, envisioning different scenarios is essential for hypothesis formation and predictive modeling.
  • Astronomers envisage distant galaxies and events in space based upon data interpretation and simulations.

Origin of 'envisage'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French verb 'envisager', which means 'to look in the face', combining 'en' (in) with 'visager' (to look).
  • First used in the English language in the 18th century, the term originally referred to mental visualization.

The word 'envisage' originates from the French word 'envisager', which means to consider or foresee. The term is composed of the prefix 'en-' meaning 'to cause to be' and 'visage', which relates to seeing or sight, derived from the Latin 'visus', meaning 'sight'. The usage of 'envisage' in English dates back to the early 19th century, and it has since become a common term in discussions about planning, predictions, and personal aspirations. Over time, it has evolved to encompass not only the act of visualizing but also the consideration of possibilities and outcomes.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,602, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.