conceptualize

especially British, con·cep·tu·al·ise

[kuhn-sep-choo-uh-lahyz]

verb (used with object)

conceptualized, conceptualizing 

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

verb (used without object)

conceptualized, conceptualizing 

1. to form a concept; think in concepts.

conceptualize

/ kənˈsɛptjʊəˌlaɪz /

verb

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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of conceptualize¹

First recorded in 1875–80; conceptual + -ize

Example Sentences

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

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Shafir likes to use the image of a suitcase to help people conceptualize their budget.

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“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.

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“For a lot of people watching beach volleyball for the first time, it’s really hard to conceptualize how wind, how deep the sand is, might affect play,” Newberry said.

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He said, “I appreciate that, but can you even conceptualize the output you will need on this show? I watched Sarah Michelle suffer for seven years. Everything was on her shoulders.”

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