Can I use "realize" instead of "notice" here?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
Yes, you can replace "notice" with "realize" in this case as they have nearly the same meaning, however, there is a slight different in nuance. To "notice" something means to suddenly become aware of something based on something you see, hear or feel physically. To "realize" something refers to becoming aware of something in your mind, so it implies a more cognitive action than a physical one. However, while there is a difference in nuance, some people still use these words interchangeably.