Socialize vs. Socializing: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Aimie Carlson || Updated on November 13, 2023
Socialize is a verb meaning to participate in social activities or to train someone to behave in a socially acceptable way. Socializing is the gerund or present participle form of socialize, referring to the act of engaging in social activities.
Key Differences
Socialize encompasses the act of interacting with others in a social context. Socializing, as an ongoing activity, refers to the process of engaging in social interactions.
Socialize can also mean adapting someone to social norms. While, socializing, in its continuous form, emphasizes the act of being in the midst of social interactions.
To socialize a pet means to train it to behave around others. When one is socializing, they are actively participating in group activities or conversations.
Parents socialize their children to teach them societal norms. People are socializing when they are mingling at events or gatherings.
Socialize can imply a broader, sometimes more formal, process of integration into society. Socializing is often more immediate, describing the act of being sociable in the moment.
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Comparison Chart
Meaning
Act of engaging in social activities; training for social behavior
The ongoing act of engaging in social interactions
Form
Base verb
Gerund or present participle form
Context
Can be formal or informal; broader implications
Generally informal; specific to the activity at hand
Use in Sentences
Often used as an action or command
Used to describe the process or state of being social
Implication
Can imply a one-time action or an ongoing process
Implies an ongoing, active process
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Socialize and Socializing Definitions
Socialize
To mix socially with others.
She likes to socialize with her colleagues after work.
Socializing
Being involved in social interactions.
Socializing at work can lead to better team cohesion.
Socialize
To train someone to behave in a socially acceptable way.
We must socialize our new puppy to be comfortable around people.
Socializing
Engaging in social activities.
Socializing at the event helped her make new friends.
Socialize
To engage in organized activities with others.
The club provides opportunities to socialize through various events.
Socializing
The process of mixing and mingling in a social setting.
Socializing at the conference is a great way to network.
Socialize
To participate in social activities.
He rarely socializes at parties, preferring to stay home.
Socializing
Participating in group conversations or activities.
He enjoys socializing with friends on weekends.
Socialize
To adapt someone to social needs or patterns.
Parents are responsible for socializing their children.
Socializing
Actively participating in social life.
Socializing is an important part of her daily routine.
Socialize
To place under government or group ownership or control
Socialized medical care.
Socializing
To place under government or group ownership or control
Socialized medical care.
Socialize
To cause to accept or behave in accordance with social norms or expectations
Techniques to socialize aggressive children.
Socializing
To cause to accept or behave in accordance with social norms or expectations
Techniques to socialize aggressive children.
Socialize
To take part in social activities
Likes to socialize with people her age.
Socializing
To take part in social activities
Likes to socialize with people her age.
Socialize
(intransitive) To interact with others
Socializing
Present participle of socialize
Socialize
(transitive) To instruct somebody, usually subconsciously, in the etiquette of a society
Socializing
The act of meeting for social purposes;
There was too much socialization with the enlisted men
Socialize
(transitive) To take something into collective or governmental ownership
Socialize
To render social.
Socialize
To subject to, or regulate by, socialism.
Socialize
Take part in social activities; interact with others;
He never socializes with his colleagues
The old man hates to socialize
Socialize
Train for a social environment;
The children must be properly socialized
Socialize
Prepare for social life;
Children have to be socialized in school
Socialize
Make conform to socialist ideas and philosophies;
Health care should be socialized!
FAQs
What does socialize mean?
Socialize means to engage in social activities or to train someone to behave socially.
Is socializing important for children?
Yes, socializing is crucial for children’s social development and learning societal norms.
Can you use socialize to mean making friends?
Yes, socialize can mean engaging in activities that lead to making friends.
Does socializing always involve talking?
Not always, socializing can include non-verbal interactions like playing games or shared activities.
Can introverts enjoy socializing?
Yes, introverts can enjoy socializing in settings they find comfortable.
Is socializing necessary for mental health?
Socializing can play a significant role in maintaining good mental health.
What is a socialize event?
A socialize event is an organized gathering intended for social interaction.
Does socializing help in career growth?
Socializing can aid career growth by building networks and relationships.
Can pets be socialized?
Yes, pets can be socialized to behave well around other animals and people.
Can online interactions be considered socializing?
Yes, socializing can occur online through chat, video calls, or social media.
Is socializing always a group activity?
Socializing typically involves interacting with others, often in groups, but can occur in smaller settings too.
How does one socialize a shy child?
By gently encouraging interactions in comfortable and supportive environments.
Is socialize a positive word?
Generally, it has a positive connotation, implying healthy social interaction.
Can animals other than pets be socialized?
Yes, many animals can be socialized, especially those in captivity.
How does socializing change with age?
The nature and preference of socializing can evolve as people age.
Can socialize have a cultural dimension?
Yes, how and with whom people socialize can be influenced by cultural factors.
Can socialize be used in a professional context?
Yes, it can refer to networking and interacting in a professional setting.
Is it possible to over-socialize?
Yes, excessive socializing without personal downtime can be overwhelming for some.
Can socializing reduce stress?
Yes, interacting with others can be a great stress reliever.
Does socializing always mean going out?
No, socializing can occur in various settings, including at home or virtually.
About Author
Written by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
