What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
realise
Example
I didn't realise how much time had passed until I looked at the clock. [realise: verb]
Example
It took me a while to realise that I had been spelling the word wrong. [realise: verb]
Example
She finally realised her dream of becoming a doctor. [realised: past tense]
grasp
Example
I couldn't grasp the meaning of the poem until I read it a few times. [grasp: verb]
Example
He grasped the rope tightly to prevent himself from falling. [grasped: past tense]
Example
The company was able to grasp the attention of its target audience with its new ad campaign. [grasp: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Realise is more commonly used in British English, while grasp is more common in American English. Both words are versatile and can be used in various contexts, but realise may be more common in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between realise and grasp?
Both realise and grasp are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
