SOH-shuh-lyze
/ˈsoʊʃəlaɪz/
verbB1TOEFLIELTS
neutral
To participate in social activities; to mix socially with others.
Implies informal interaction, often for pleasure or to build relationships. It's about engaging with people in a group context.
The story behind the word. The word 'socialize' is a relatively modern addition to English, built upon the much older word 'social.' 'Social' itself comes from the Latin 'socius,' meaning 'companion' or 'ally.' To 'socialize' literally means to 'make social' or to 'engage in social activities,' reflecting the fundamental human need for companionship and interaction. It captures the essence of connecting with others in a group setting.
Word relationships
- mingle: To mix or associate with others, typically at a social event.
- interact: To communicate or be involved in contact with others, more general than 'socialize'.
- network: To interact with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.
- isolate: To cause (a person or place) to be or remain alone or apart from others.
- withdraw: To remove oneself from a social situation.
Commonly confused with
- communicate: 'Communicate' is about exchanging information; 'socialize' is specifically about engaging in social interaction, often for enjoyment or relationship building.
Word family
- social (adjective): Relating to society or its organization; needing companionship.
- socialization (noun): The process of learning to behave in a way that is acceptable to society.
Collocations
- socialize with friends
- socialize at parties
- learn to socialize
- opportunity to socialize
Example sentences
- "The school dance provided a great opportunity for students to socialize and make new friends." Describing school events.
- "After a long week of work, I enjoy socializing with friends over dinner." In a personal reflection.
- "It's important to socialize puppies from a young age so they learn to interact well with other dogs and people." About pets.
Memory hook
Think of 'social' events where you 'ize' (do) the act of meeting people. Social-ize
When not to use
Do not use 'socialize' for formal meetings or structured professional interactions, unless you are specifically referring to the informal mingling aspect.
Fun facts
- The word 'society' also derives from the same Latin root 'socius'.
socialize
To participate in social activities; to mix socially with others.
Implies informal interaction, often for pleasure or to build relationships. It's about engaging with people in a group context.
Word relationships
Commonly confused with
Word family
Collocations
Example sentences
Memory hook
Think of 'social' events where you 'ize' (do) the act of meeting people. Social-ize
When not to use
Do not use 'socialize' for formal meetings or structured professional interactions, unless you are specifically referring to the informal mingling aspect.
Fun facts
Related words
inclusion, dynamics
Explore more words
network, socialization, accommodate, celebrate, conform, networking
Also appears in