What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
internalized
Example
She had internalized her parents' values and beliefs from a young age. [internalized: verb]
Example
The trauma he experienced had become internalized, affecting his behavior and emotions. [internalized: adjective]
absorb
Example
The sponge absorbed all the water on the counter. [absorbed: past tense]
Example
She was able to absorb the material quickly and ace the exam. [absorb: verb]
Example
The novel was so captivating that it absorbed her attention for hours. [absorbed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Absorb is more commonly used than internalized in everyday language. Absorb is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while internalized is less common and is typically used in the context of beliefs, values, or attitudes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between internalized and absorb?
Both internalized and absorb are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.