-ization
suffix
UK/ˌaɪ.zəˈteɪ.ʃən/ or /ˌɪ.zəˈteɪ.ʃən/US/ˌaɪ.zəˈteɪ.ʃən/ or /ˌɪ.zəˈteɪ.ʃən/
Used to form nouns denoting the action, process, or result of making something into a particular state (from Greek ‘-izein’ + Latin ‘-ation’). Common in American English (with the British variant often spelled ‘-isation’), it frequently appears with verbs ending in ‘-ize’ (or ‘-ise’). Examples include ‘modernization’ (the process of making modern), ‘globalization’ (the process of becoming global), and ‘realization’ (the act of becoming aware or making real).
Example Sentences
Modernization efforts often focus on updating infrastructure, technology, and social norms to reflect contemporary standards.
Globalization has enabled companies to expand their markets worldwide but also raises questions about cultural homogenization and economic disparities.
The realization that the project would exceed its budget prompted a thorough re-evaluation of spending priorities and deadlines.
Organizations undergoing digitization streamline their operations by adopting electronic systems and automating manual tasks.
Colonization historically involved one country establishing control over another territory, reshaping local demographics and cultures in the process.
Industrialization during the 19th century dramatically changed economies, shifting them from agrarian-based to manufacturing-focused societies.
Personalization in marketing tailors products and advertisements to individual customer preferences, often using data-driven insights.
Prioritization of tasks proves essential for time management, ensuring that the most critical items are addressed first to meet deadlines effectively.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Indicates the process or action of making or becoming something.The suffix '-ization' is used to form nouns that describe the process of making, becoming, or transforming into a specific state or condition. It is derived from the Latin '-izationem,' which means 'the act of making or becoming.' For example, 'realization' refers to the process of making something real or becoming aware of something; 'globalization' refers to the process of making something global or widespread; 'civilization' refers to the process of developing or advancing a society. '-ization' is frequently used in formal, academic, and technical contexts to describe processes or changes.
Alternatives
Similar suffixes include '-isation' (the British English spelling of '-ization'), '-ment' (indicating the result of an action), and '-ing' (often used for ongoing actions or processes). '-ization' specifically emphasizes the process of becoming or transforming into a particular state.
Writing
In writing, '-ization' is commonly used to describe processes or actions that lead to a change or transformation. For example, 'The modernization of the company’s infrastructure significantly improved productivity.' This suffix is helpful for expressing change or development, especially in professional or academic contexts.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-ization' may appear when discussing changes or developments, such as 'The globalization of the internet has impacted many industries.' While it's more common in formal or technical language, it can still come up in everyday discussions about transformation or progress.
Etymology
The suffix '-ization' comes from the Latin '-izationem,' which was used to form nouns that describe a process or action. It entered English in the 16th century and has since become a standard way to describe the act or process of becoming something or making something into a particular state. This suffix is widely used in scientific, business, and social contexts to describe processes of change or development.
