SOH-shuh-lyz
/ˈsoʊʃəlaɪz/
verbB1IELTSTOEFL
general
To participate in social activities and mix comfortably with other people.
Refers to the action of mixing with others, or the process of training individuals to fit into society.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'socius' (companion or ally). First recorded in the 1830s meaning 'to render social' or adapt to community life.
Word relationships
- mingle: Mingle emphasizes moving around a room during an event; socialize is broader social engagement.
- isolate: Isolate means separating oneself entirely from human contact.
Commonly confused with
- socialism: Socialize is to mix socially with people; socialism is an economic political ideology.
Word family
- socialization (noun): The process of learning to behave in a way acceptable to society.
- socializer (noun): A person who enjoys mixing with others.
Collocations
- socialize with peers
- socialize frequently
- socialize children
Example sentences
- "It is crucial for remote workers to socialize outside working hours to avoid feeling isolated." Work-life balance
Memory hook
SOCIALIZE with your SOCIAL companions. Mixing with companions.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'nationalize' or political restructuring unless specifically using sociology jargon.
Fun facts
- Puppies go through a critical 'socialization period' between 3 and 14 weeks old.
socialize
To participate in social activities and mix comfortably with other people.
Refers to the action of mixing with others, or the process of training individuals to fit into society.
Word relationships
Commonly confused with
Word family
Collocations
Example sentences
Memory hook
SOCIALIZE with your SOCIAL companions. Mixing with companions.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'nationalize' or political restructuring unless specifically using sociology jargon.
Fun facts
Related words
extrovert, gregarious
Explore more words
network, socialization, accommodate, celebrate, conform, networking
Also appears in