envisage

Definition of envisagenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word envisage distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of envisage are conceive, envision, fancy, imagine, realize, and think. While all these words mean "to form an idea of," envisage and envision imply a conceiving or imagining that is especially clear or detailed.

envisaged a totally computerized operation
envisioned a cure for the disease

When is conceive a more appropriate choice than envisage?

The synonyms conceive and envisage are sometimes interchangeable, but conceive suggests the forming and bringing forth and usually developing of an idea, plan, or design.

conceived of a new marketing approach

In what contexts can fancy take the place of envisage?

The words fancy and envisage can be used in similar contexts, but fancy suggests an imagining often unrestrained by reality but spurred by desires.

fancied himself a super athlete

When might imagine be a better fit than envisage?

While the synonyms imagine and envisage are close in meaning, imagine stresses a visualization.

imagine you're at the beach

When could realize be used to replace envisage?

The meanings of realize and envisage largely overlap; however, realize stresses a grasping of the significance of what is conceived or imagined.

realized the enormity of the task ahead

Where would think be a reasonable alternative to envisage?

Although the words think and envisage have much in common, think implies the entrance of an idea into one's mind with or without deliberate consideration or reflection.

I just thought of a good joke

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of envisage Israel wants Lebanon’s government to assume responsibility for disarming Hezbollah, much like was envisaged in a November 2024 ceasefire. ABC News, 14 Apr. 2026 Israel wants Lebanon’s government to assume responsibility for disarming Hezbollah, much as was envisaged in a November 2024 ceasefire. Munir Ahmed, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026 Diaspora Jewry needs the confidence to work in partnership with Israelis for the Israel envisaged in the Declaration of Independence. Mick Davis, Sun Sentinel, 14 Apr. 2026 Israel wants Lebanon’s government to assume responsibility for disarming Hezbollah, much like was envisaged in a November 2024 ceasefire. E. Eduardo Castillo, Fortune, 12 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for envisage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for envisage
Verb
  • Should one ever want to imagine what a future boutique resort could look like on the Moon, or Mars, a stay at Echo could be the most accurate preview.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2026
  • Growing up in India, Shubhangi Seth had always imagined her dream wedding on the mesmerizing shores of Italy’s Lake Como, ringed by stunning alpine peaks and piercing blue water.
    Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 21 May 2026
Verb
  • Matsuzawa envisioned a future that would keep him in Japan — college, followed by a career.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 15 May 2026
  • Her role, the one head coach Cori Close envisioned to complete a team built to win it all, centered on joy and culture.
    Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • Fox joined a Spurs team that had Paul start all 82 games last season, watched the Spurs replace Paul with second-overall draft pick Dylan Harper and then saw Stephon Castle build on his Rookie of the Year campaign by leading San Antonio in touches and assists.
    Law Murray, New York Times, 21 May 2026
  • Some saw the chance to steer Cuba to a model like Vietnam, where communist rule coexisted with a thriving economy.
    Chris Kenning, USA Today, 21 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Envisage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/envisage. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

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