Humanize: meaning, definitions and examples

See 'humanize'. Note: 'Humanize' appears twice but refers to the same concept.

• The organization worked to humanize the policies affecting the homeless.
• Educational content should humanize historical figures.

Used when expressing or showing understanding and shared feelings, often in personal contexts or when giving support.

• I can empathize with you because I went through a similar situation.
• They empathize with the victims of the disaster.

A less common term generally used to express actions or thoughts filled with compassion and understanding toward others.

• Her goal in the speech was to compassionize the audience towards refugees.

An unconventional and less common term meant to indicate the act of being kind or gentle, often in a poetic or creative context.

• In the story, the fairy decided to kinden the lonely dragon.
• We must strive to kinden our actions towards others.

Used when making something more comfortable and relatable for people, especially to make a system, policy, or environment more considerate of human needs and feelings.

• The company decided to humanize their workplace by adding more green spaces and break areas.
• The teacher tried to humanize the lesson by sharing personal anecdotes.

Used when making something easier to understand or do, often by removing complexity.

• The instructions were simplified so that even first-time users could follow them.
• They simplified the process by reducing the paperwork required.

Applied when describing something that is easy for people to use, usually referring to products, software, or websites designed with the end-user in mind.

• The new software is very user-friendly, even beginners can navigate it easily.
• They designed the website to be user-friendly, with intuitive navigation and clear instructions.

Applied when making something accessible or easier to use, particularly for people with disabilities or those that might face difficulties.

• The city plans to accessibilize all public transportation to accommodate wheelchair users.
• They aimed to accessibilize the website by adding screen reader support.

Use 'humanize' to describe making something more relatable, approachable, or adding human characteristics to non-human things. It is often used in contexts where objects, systems, or abstract concepts are made more understandable and relatable to people.

• The company strives to humanize customer service by adding personal interactions.
• The artist's work humanizes the struggles of everyday people.

'Personalize' is used when tailoring something to an individual's specific preferences or needs. It is common in marketing, customer service, and technology to enhance the user experience.

• The company offers personalized gifts for all occasions.
• You can personalize your profile by adding photos and descriptions.

'Empathy' is used to describe the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It is often used in situations where someone needs to show emotional support or understanding towards others.

• She showed great empathy when she listened to her friend's problems.
• Good leaders cultivate empathy to better understand their team's needs.

The term 'human touch' is used when referring to the personal, caring, and considerate elements that can be added to various situations. It often emphasizes the importance of personal contact and emotional connection.

• The doctor provided a human touch by spending extra time with each patient.
• In the digital age, businesses must not forget the value of a human touch.