Meaning & use
envision
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Meanings
verbtransitive
To imagine something as a future possibility, often with clear detail.
Grammar: Takes an object: envision a solution. Can be followed by an -ing form or a that-clause.
Patterns
- envision something
- envision doing something
- envision that ...
The architect envisioned a building filled with natural light.
She envisions a world where everyone has equal opportunities.
They envision expanding the business into new markets.
verbtransitive
To see or picture something in your mind, especially something not present.
Grammar: Often used in the phrase 'envision someone as something'.
Patterns
- envision someone as something
I always envisioned him as a teacher, not a lawyer.
Can you envision yourself living in another country?
Word forms
| third person singular | envisions |
|---|---|
| past tense | envisioned |
| past participle | envisioned |
| -ing form | envisioning |
Common combinations
- envision a future
- The author envisions a future without war.
- envision a solution
- We need to envision a solution that works for everyone.
- envision something as
- The company envisions the product as a tool for education.
- envision doing something
- I can't envision working in an office all day.
Synonyms and how they differ
Word family
- envisioned adjective
- Imagined or planned for the future; e.g., the envisioned outcome.
- envisioning noun
- The act of imagining a future possibility.
Commonly confused: envision or envisage?
envision vs envisage
Envisage is more common in British English and has the same meaning, but envision is more common in American English.
Practice
Choose the correct sentence with 'envision'.
Choose one answer.
'Envision' takes a direct object, so 'envision a city' is correct. 'Envisions to start' is wrong because envision is not followed by a to-infinitive; 'envisions about' and 'envision for' are not used.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “envision”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.