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Materialize: meaning, definitions and examples

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materialize

 

[ məˈtɪərɪˌlaɪz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in programming

To convert a virtual representation of an object into a physical, visible form, often in the context of computer graphics or user interfaces.

Synonyms

actualize, implement, realize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
materialize

Use when talking about something becoming real or visible, often used in such a way that implies unexpected or surprising events.

  • The ghost suddenly materialized in front of us
  • Their plans to build a new library never materialized
realize

Often used when someone becomes fully aware of something as a fact, or to express the achievement of something desired or anticipated.

  • He didn't realize the importance of the meeting until it was too late
  • She finally realized her dream of becoming a doctor
actualize

Used when referring to the process of making something real from an abstract concept, often used in personal development or psychology.

  • She attended the seminar to learn how to actualize her full potential
  • His dreams of becoming an artist are finally beginning to actualize
implement

Appropriate for describing the execution or putting a plan, decision, policy, or system into effect.

  • The government plans to implement new policies next year
  • The company needed to implement new software to improve efficiency

Examples of usage

  • The software engineer was able to materialize the 3D model on the screen.
  • The function will materialize the data into a user-friendly interface.
Context #2 | Verb

in a non-physical sense

To make something happen or come into existence.

Synonyms

achieve, fulfill, manifest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
materialize

Used when something that was previously abstract or planned becomes real or visible. Often used in discussions about plans, ideas, or predictions coming into existence.

  • The project finally materialized after years of planning.
  • She hoped her dreams would materialize someday.
manifest

Used when something becomes apparent, clear, or is demonstrated. Often used in a more philosophical or formal context.

  • His fear manifested in his nervous behavior.
  • The effects of climate change are beginning to manifest.
achieve

Used when referring to reaching a goal, especially after effort or continued trying. Commonly used in personal and professional accomplishments.

  • She worked hard to achieve her career goals.
  • Winning the championship was a significant achievement for the team.
fulfill

Often used when talking about satisfying a requirement, condition, or need. It can also refer to realizing one's potential or dreams.

  • He fulfilled his promise to help the community.
  • The job allows her to fulfill her potential.

Examples of usage

  • The team was finally able to materialize their project after months of hard work.
  • Her dream of becoming a published author materialized when her book was accepted for publication.

Translations

Translations of the word "materialize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 materializar

🇮🇳 अवतरित करना

🇩🇪 materialisieren

🇮🇩 meujudkan

🇺🇦 матеріалізувати

🇵🇱 materializować

🇯🇵 具現化する (gugenka suru)

🇫🇷 matérialiser

🇪🇸 materializar

🇹🇷 gerçekleştirmek

🇰🇷 구체화하다 (guchehwahada)

🇸🇦 تجسد

🇨🇿 zrealizovat

🇸🇰 materializovať

🇨🇳 实现 (shíxiàn)

🇸🇮 materializirati

🇮🇸 gerast

🇰🇿 материализациялау

🇬🇪 მასალიზაცია (masalizatsia)

🇦🇿 materializasiya

🇲🇽 materializar

Etymology

The word 'materialize' is derived from the Latin word 'materia', meaning 'matter' or 'substance'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, with its roots in philosophical and metaphysical discussions about the nature of existence and reality. Over time, the term has come to be widely used in various fields, including technology, literature, and everyday language, to describe the process of bringing something into tangible form or making it a reality.

See also: immaterial, immateriality, material, materialism, materiality, materialization, materially, materials.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,716, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.