Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Internalize: meaning, definitions and examples

🧠
Add to dictionary

internalize

 

[ɪnˈtɜrnəlaɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

psychology

To internalize means to make something, such as an idea or belief, become part of one's inner self or mind. It is the process of incorporating external information or experiences into one's internal framework.

Synonyms

absorb, assimilate, incorporate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
internalize

Best used when referring to the process of making something a part of one's own mindset or habitual thought processes. This often involves deep understanding or acceptance.

  • She has internalized her mentor's advice and it shows in her work.
  • It's important to internalize these principles to truly benefit from them.
incorporate

Best for when adding or including something as part of a greater whole, often in a formal or structural context.

  • We need to incorporate these updates into our software.
  • She successfully incorporated various styles into her artwork.
absorb

Use when talking about taking in information, ideas, or liquids. This term emphasizes the act of taking something in rather than fully understanding or integrating it.

  • He can absorb new information quickly.
  • The sponge absorbed all the spilled water.
assimilate

Fits situations where one is integrating new information, experiences, or cultures into an existing framework. This term often implies a more active process of making something part of a unified whole.

  • Immigrants often struggle to assimilate into a new culture.
  • The students worked hard to assimilate the new concepts presented in the lecture.

Examples of usage

  • Children internalize the values and norms of their parents through socialization.
  • Students internalize knowledge through studying and practice.
  • Employees often internalize the company's mission and values.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'internus', meaning 'internal' or 'inside'.
  • It emerged in the English language in the late 19th century, initially in psychological contexts.
  • The prefix 'in-' means 'into', which reinforces the idea of bringing something inside oneself.

Psychology

  • Internalizing is often associated with how we process and deal with emotions, turning external experiences into internal beliefs.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy aims to help individuals recognize and reshape internalized negative thoughts.
  • Children often internalize social norms and expectations from their parents and peers, influencing their behavior.

Education

  • In educational contexts, internalizing learning can enhance retention and application of knowledge.
  • Techniques such as self-explanation allow students to internalize concepts more effectively.
  • Internalizing skills often leads to mastery, where actions become automatic.

Cultural Studies

  • Different cultures have unique methods of internalizing values, which can shape behaviors and identity.
  • The concept can also apply to how marginalized groups may internalize stereotypes or prejudices from dominant cultures.
  • Art and literature can serve as tools for internalization, helping individuals reflect and integrate broader themes into their lives.

Personal Development

  • Internalizing positive affirmations can lead to improved self-esteem and resilience.
  • Mindfulness practices promote the internalization of self-awareness and emotional regulation.
  • Journaling encourages internal reflection, allowing individuals to make sense of their experiences and feelings.

Translations

Translations of the word "internalize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 internalizar

🇮🇳 अंदर लेना

🇩🇪 verinnerlichen

🇮🇩 menginternalisasi

🇺🇦 інтерналізувати

🇵🇱 internalizować

🇯🇵 内面化する

🇫🇷 internaliser

🇪🇸 internalizar

🇹🇷 içselleştirmek

🇰🇷 내면화하다

🇸🇦 استيعاب

🇨🇿 internalizovat

🇸🇰 internalizovať

🇨🇳 内化

🇸🇮 internalizirati

🇮🇸 innvæðing

🇰🇿 интернализация

🇬🇪 ინტერნალიზაცია

🇦🇿 daxil etmək

🇲🇽 internalizar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,849, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.