To realize an asset means to turn it into cash or its equivalent, such as selling it for money. When you realize an asset, you're essentially converting the asset into a liquid form that can be easily used or spent. This could involve selling a physical asset, like a car or a house, or selling a financial asset, like stocks or bonds. Once you've realized an asset, you have the cash or funds to use for other purposes, such as investing, paying off debt, or making a purchase. So, to realize an asset means to convert it into cash or its equivalent, so that it can be used or spent more easily.