Word
idealized
Phoneticside·al·ized
/aɪˈdiəˌɫaɪzd/
UK spelling · idealised
Definition
v. to imagine someone or something as being perfect or better than they really are. You use this when you make a person or situation sound too good to be true.
v. to represent or describe someone or something in an unrealistic or overly positive way. Often involves a mental image of perfection that does not reflect the actual reality.
Examples
“He idealized his first love and forgot all the problems.”
“Many young people idealize their future careers, not realizing the long hours and stress involved in the job.”
“The protagonist's character is heavily idealized by the author, serving as a moral compass that contrasts sharply with the flawed, pragmatic world around him.”
Examples
simple
“He idealized his first love and forgot all the problems.”
contextual
“Many young people idealize their future careers, not realizing the long hours and stress involved in the job.”
complex
“The protagonist's character is heavily idealized by the author, serving as a moral compass that contrasts sharply with the flawed, pragmatic world around him.”
Real-World Examples
“This is an idealized version of reality in which individuals are not assumed to be cognitively biased.” “Ed described them as “bodies to grow into.” The figures aren’t necessarily idealized forms though.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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