conceptualize

American  

[kuhn-sep-choo-uh-lahyz] / kənˈsɛp tʃu əˌlaɪz /

especially British, conceptualise

verb (used with object)

conceptualized, conceptualizing

1. to form into a concept; make a concept of.

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verb (used without object)

conceptualized, conceptualizing

1. to form a concept; think in concepts.

conceptualize British  

/ kənˈsɛptjʊəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. to form (a concept or concepts) out of observations, experience, data, etc

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Other Word Forms

• conceptualization
  noun
• conceptualizer
  noun
• reconceptualize
  verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of conceptualize

First recorded in 1875–80; conceptual + -ize

Explanation

If you have an idea for something, or if you understand something fully, you conceptualize it. You might conceptualize the plan for a big party, but find it hard to conceptualize exactly how the big bang worked. In conceptualize, you see the word concept which means an idea. Don't think of a simple idea though, like taking a walk. Imagine a complex concept involving many elements, so a little brain work is involved. When you conceptualize, you either create a concept or you grasp one. The idea of man landing on the moon was conceptualized hundreds of years before it was planned or achieved.

Example Sentences

McCardel found that the job required an ability to conceptualize problems in a way that bordered on the philosophical.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

“We’re not built to conceptualize it, but you just have to trust.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 21, 2025

“That impact is something that is hard to conceptualize, even when you are a member of Congress who represents some of these communities,” Maher said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 16, 2025

Historical and contemporary examples can help conceptualize the establishment of such a scheme.

From Salon • Dec. 11, 2024

But he couldn’t form words, couldn’t conceptualize this as a victory.

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro