English Reference
Verb

envision

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ɛnˈvɪʒən/ UK /ɛnvˈɪʒən/ en·vi·sion UK spelling envisioned, envisions

v.to imagine something as a future possibility. You use this when you have a clear picture in your mind of how something could be.

v.to imagine or conceive of a future possibility or event. Often implies a structured or purposeful mental visualization rather than a fleeting thought.


SIMPLE

I envision a world where everyone has clean water.

CONTEXTUAL

The architect asked the clients how they envision using the open-plan space during the winter months.

COMPLEX

Economists envision a significant shift in global trade patterns as emerging markets develop more robust internal consumer bases and reduce their reliance on raw material exports.

Usage

The verb is transitive and often takes a gerund (-ing form) or a 'that' clause as its object.

Pitfall
I envision to move to SpainI envision moving to Spain

Envision is followed by a gerund (-ing), not an infinitive.

Imagine your community has a project it is envisioning but is struggling to find the right funding.

Phys.org· 27 Aug 2026

This literature also allows them to envision another world without racism, and full of Black children and communities thriving.

The Conversation· 14 Jul 2026

From en- + vision, from Latin visionem (“a thing or sight seen”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated