Notice vs Realize: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
While "notice" means to physically perceive or observe something, "realize" refers to mentally becoming aware of a fact.
Memory Tip: notice = see, realize = understand
notice starts with 'no', realize starts with 're'
notice /ˈnoʊtɪs/
verbTo see or become aware of something.
Example:
I was walking through the park when I noticed a beautiful bird sitting on a branch.
Common patterns:
notice something
notice someone
realize /ˈriːəlaɪz/
verbTo understand or become aware of something clearly.
Example:
I have realized that learning a new language takes time and patience.
Common patterns:
realize a dream
realize the importance
realize the potential
Common Mistakes
I didn't realize the sign on the door as I walked by.
I didn't notice the sign on the door as I walked by.
The sentence refers to physically seeing the sign, so 'notice' is correct.
She noticed that she had forgotten her keys when she reached the car.
She realized that she had forgotten her keys when she reached the car.
The sentence refers to mentally becoming aware of forgetting the keys, so 'realize' is correct.
Other Confusing Words
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