Perceber vs. realizar
The Portuguese words perceber and realizar can both be translated as to realize in English, but they have slightly different connotations and usage in Portuguese.
Perceber
A2Perceber primarily means to understand, grasp, or become aware of something. It often implies a mental process of comprehension.
Eu percebi que estava atrasado para a reunião.
(I realized I was late for the meeting.)
Finalmente percebi o significado daquela expressão.
(I finally understood the meaning of that expression.)
Você percebe a diferença entre esses dois conceitos?
(Do you understand the difference between these two concepts?)
Realizar
B1Realizar primarily means to accomplish or achieve something. It can also mean to realize in the sense of making something real or bringing it into existence.
Ela realizou seu sonho de se tornar médica.
(She realized her dream of becoming a doctor.)
O projeto foi realizado em tempo recorde.
(The project was accomplished in record time.)
Ao ver o resultado, realizei o impacto do meu trabalho.
(Seeing the result, I realized the impact of my work.)
Summary
While both perceber and realizar can mean to realize, perceber is more commonly used for understanding or becoming aware of something, whereas realizar is often used for accomplishing something or making it real. Perceber focuses on mental comprehension, while realizar emphasizes bringing something into reality or achieving a goal.