What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
discovery
Example
The discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine. [discovery: noun]
Example
She discovered a new species of butterfly in the rainforest. [discovered: past tense verb]
realization
Example
It was only after the accident that he came to the realization that life is precious. [realization: noun]
Example
She realized her dream of becoming a doctor after years of studying. [realized: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Realization is more commonly used than discovery in everyday language. Realization is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while discovery is less common and refers to a specific type of finding or breakthrough.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between discovery and realization?
Both discovery and realization can be used in formal and informal contexts, but discovery may be more commonly used in academic or scientific settings due to its association with research and exploration.
