WordGarden.ioitemize
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈaɪtəmˌaɪz/
US
- /ˈaɪtəˌmaɪz/
Meanings
Verb
to list things one by one, especially with details
to claim individual deductions or expenses separately on a tax or financial form
Beyond the definition
Imagine you've just thrown a fantastic party. Now your roommate wants to know exactly how much everything cost so they can pay you back. You wouldn't just say "a lot!" Instead, you would itemize the expenses by listing each one separately: decorations, food, drinks, ice, and more. That's what it means to break something down into a clear, detailed list.
To itemize is to present things as separate items, often with numbers or bullet points. It helps make things clear and organized. You might itemize the pros and cons of a decision or itemize the ingredients in a recipe. Think of it as making a simple list with each part shown on its own.
To itemize means to present something as a list of individual items, rather than as one whole unit. It's about breaking down information into smaller, more manageable parts for clarity and understanding. The word comes from the idea of "item," meaning a single thing, and suggests a deliberate effort to detail each component.
You'll often see itemize used in contexts where precision is important, such as accounting, legal documents, or technical instructions. For example: "The contract will itemize all costs associated with the project" or "Please itemize your deductions on Schedule A."
However, it's not limited to formal settings. You can itemize anything you want to make more organized and understandable. Think about writing a grocery list: you itemize what you need to buy. Or, when planning a trip, you might itemize the things you need to pack.
The act of itemizing isn't just about making lists; it's about providing detail, showing clearly what is included, and making information easier to follow. It turns a general idea into a specific plan or record. So next time you see a list with bullet points or numbers, remember: someone took the time to itemize it.
Examples
- 1
Travel expenses
Please itemize your travel expenses before you submit the form.
- 2
Billing
The hotel gave us an itemized bill showing the room charge, meals, and taxes.
- 3
Report details
In the report, she itemized the reasons for the delay.
- 4
Tax deductions
Many taxpayers no longer itemize deductions because the standard deduction is higher.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- itemizeverb
Forms
- itemizedpast tenseverb
- itemizing-ing formverb
- itemizesverb