Definition of envisionnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word envision distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of envision are conceive, envisage, 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

In what contexts can conceive take the place of envision?

Although the words conceive and envision have much in common, conceive suggests the forming and bringing forth and usually developing of an idea, plan, or design.

conceived of a new marketing approach

When can fancy be used instead of envision?

The meanings of fancy and envision largely overlap; however, fancy suggests an imagining often unrestrained by reality but spurred by desires.

fancied himself a super athlete

When is it sensible to use imagine instead of envision?

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

imagine you're at the beach

When is realize a more appropriate choice than envision?

The synonyms realize and envision are sometimes interchangeable, but realize stresses a grasping of the significance of what is conceived or imagined.

realized the enormity of the task ahead

When could think be used to replace envision?

The words think and envision can be used in similar contexts, but 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 envision Another envisions a future where technology augments rather than replaces human capability. Robert B. Tucker, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 Some will envision the sun glistening off downtown’s skyline or illuminating the city’s verdant tree canopy. Zachary Hansen, AJC.com, 12 June 2026 What began as a film envisioned for Chris ultimately evolved into a very different but equally memorable vehicle for Jim. Simon Bland, IndieWire, 12 June 2026 Proceeds from the outing will go toward an officer resiliency center, which is envisioned as a dedicated space for officer health and mental health, to help officers handle the stress accompanies a career in law enforcement. Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for envision
Recent Examples of Synonyms for envision
Verb
  • My friend Cody Two Bears did not need to imagine.
    Cody Two Bears, Rolling Stone, 17 June 2026
  • When her father’s time appeared to be at hand a few days ago, Felicia Parazaider imagined him being reunited with Terry Kath in the afterlife soon.
    Chris Willman, Variety, 17 June 2026
Verb
  • The controversial diplomatic breakthrough poses a quandary for Vance, whose aides see Rubio as his most viable challenger for the Republican presidential nomination should the secretary choose to run.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026
  • She was last seen Thursday night in surveillance footage walking through the Publix parking lot at 100 Old Cherokee Road.
    Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Envision.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/envision. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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