Wake up to

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phrasal verb

Become aware or start to realize something.

He woke up to the fact that he was failing his classes.
Visual representation of "wake up to" - Become aware or start to realize something

Often appears as...

  • wake up to reality
  • wake up to the truth

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "wake up to"
LampPro Tip 1/2

Figurative Sense

Often used metaphorically to suggest the process of understanding or realization.

Illustration for Figurative Sense
It took years for him to wake up to his potential.
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Delayed Insight

May imply a delayed realization, not immediate.

Illustration for Delayed Insight
After discussing, she woke up to the seriousness of the issue.
Visual representation of the word "Wake up to"

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