humanization

Meanings

1. 1noununcountable

   The process of making something more humane, kind, or suitable for people.

   Grammar: Uncountable; often followed by 'of': 'the humanization of the workplace.'

   Patterns

   • the humanization of something
   • humanization in something

   The humanization of prison conditions has been a slow but important reform.

   The hospital's new program focuses on the humanization of care for elderly patients.

   Designers are calling for the humanization of technology so that it feels less cold.

2. 2noununcountable

   The act of showing or describing someone as human, especially in literature or art.

   Grammar: Uncountable; often used with 'of' to name the person or group.

   Patterns

   • the humanization of a character
   • humanization in literature

   The novel's humanization of the villain makes readers sympathize with him.

   The artist's humanization of historical figures brought them to life.

   Through humanization, the documentary shows refugees as ordinary people with hopes and fears.

3. 3noununcountable

   The process of making something more human in form or character, as in giving human qualities to animals or objects.

   Grammar: Uncountable; can refer to a literal or figurative change.

   Patterns

   • the humanization of something
   • humanization of animals

   The cartoon's humanization of animals allows them to speak and wear clothes.

   Some critics worry about the humanization of pets, treating them like children.

   The story's humanization of the robot raises questions about what it means to be alive.

Common combinations

the humanization of work

The humanization of work means giving employees more control and respect.

humanization of medicine

The humanization of medicine puts the patient's feelings at the center.

humanization of a character

The humanization of the character made the story more moving.

call for humanization

Many activists call for the humanization of immigration policies.

Synonyms and how they differ

personalization

Personalization means making something fit one person's needs; humanization means making it more humane or human in general.

anthropomorphism

Anthropomorphism is attributing human qualities to animals or gods; humanization is broader and can mean making systems kinder or characters more human.

Opposites

Word family

humanize verb

To make something more humane or to give it human qualities.

human adjective

Relating to people.

humane adjective

Showing kindness and care, especially toward people or animals.

humanely adverb

In a kind and caring way.

Commonly confused: humanization or humanism?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “humanization”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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