What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
realization
Example
It was only after she saw the evidence that the realization hit her. [realization: noun]
Example
He realized that he had been wrong all along. [realized: past tense verb]
comprehension
Example
The teacher tested the students' comprehension of the material. [comprehension: noun]
Example
I struggled with comprehending the complex instructions. [comprehending: present participle verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Realization is more commonly used than comprehension in everyday language, as it can be used to describe a sudden moment of understanding or clarity. Comprehension is more often used in academic or technical contexts to describe a deeper level of understanding.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between realization and comprehension?
Comprehension is generally considered more formal than realization, as it is often used in academic or technical contexts. However, both words can be used in a variety of formality levels depending on the context.
