OpenSynonym

idealize

/aɪˈdiːəˌlaɪz/

VERB

1. To regard someone or something as perfect

To admire or think about a person, object, relationship, or situation as being better or more perfect than it actually is, often by overlooking flaws or weaknesses.

1.1. Admiration and idolization of people

To regard someone as exceptionally admirable, almost perfect, or worthy of great devotion and respect.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • belittle
  • denigrate
  • disparage
  • decry
  • deprecate
  • put down

Examples

  • Some individuals may idealize certain historical figures, overlooking their flaws and shortcomings.
  • She tended to idealize her favorite author and regard him as incapable of making mistakes.

Related Words

1.2. Romanticizing relationships and experiences

To view love, relationships, childhood, or life experiences in an excessively positive or romantic way while ignoring their difficulties and imperfections.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • It's common for people to idealize their childhood memories, remembering only the positive moments.
  • Despite the challenges, he continued to idealize the concept of true love, hoping for a perfect relationship.

Related Words

  • sentimentalize
  • nostalgia
  • idealism
  • romanticism
  • infatuation
  • wishful thinking

VERB

2. To portray something in an ideal or perfected form

To represent a person, object, place, or situation according to an ideal standard by emphasizing desirable qualities and minimizing imperfections or undesirable details.

2.1. Artistic and literary representation

To depict subjects in paintings, literature, or other creative works in a beautified or perfected form rather than presenting them exactly as they appear in reality.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • As an artist, she tended to idealize the natural world in her paintings, capturing its beauty and serenity.
  • The painter chose to idealize the human figure rather than reproduce every physical imperfection.

Related Words

2.2. Presenting situations in an overly favorable way

To describe or present circumstances, lifestyles, or concepts as more attractive, pleasant, or perfect than they are in reality.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • In times of stress, it's easy to idealize a simpler life, free from complexities and responsibilities.

Related Words

VERB

3. To form or conceive an ideal

To develop a mental conception of something in its perfect, most desirable, or exemplary form.

3.1. Creating ideal concepts and standards

To imagine, formulate, or establish an ideal model or standard that represents how something should be.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The philosopher sought to idealize a model of justice that could guide future generations.

Related Words