Word
socialize
Phoneticsso·cial·ize, stress on the first syllable
/ˈsoʊʃəˌɫaɪz/
UK spelling · socialise
Definition
v. to spend time with other people for fun. You do this when you go to parties, meet friends for coffee, or talk to neighbors.
v. to participate in social activities or mix socially with others. Often implies the development of interpersonal relationships or the maintenance of a social network.
Examples
“I like to socialize with my coworkers after the office closes.”
“It is important for new students to socialize during the first week of university to build a support group.”
“While some people find it exhausting to socialize in large groups, others thrive on the energy of crowded events and constant interpersonal interaction.”
Examples
simple
“I like to socialize with my coworkers after the office closes.”
contextual
“It is important for new students to socialize during the first week of university to build a support group.”
complex
“While some people find it exhausting to socialize in large groups, others thrive on the energy of crowded events and constant interpersonal interaction.”
Usage
The verb is intransitive when meaning to mix with others, often taking the preposition 'with'.
Pitfall
I like to socialize my friends
I like to socialize with my friends
When meaning to spend time together, the verb is intransitive and requires the preposition 'with'.
Etymology
From social + -ize.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- 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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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