Pronunciation: [kənˈala͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the verb "canalize" is /ˈkænəlaɪz/. The word is derived from the noun "canal" and means to construct or use a canal for transportation or irrigation purposes. The consonant cluster "nl" is pronounced as a single sound, /n/ followed by /l/. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is marked with a diacritic, the symbol / ˈ /, indicating that it is stressed.
Canalize is a verb that refers to the act of directing, guiding, or controlling something along a specific path or channel. It involves the process of creating or utilizing a canal, a man-made waterway or conduit, through which liquids or substances can flow in a desired direction. However, the term can also be applied metaphorically to describe the act of channeling or directing something, such as thoughts, emotions, or resources, into a specific course or purpose.
In a physical sense, canalize typically involves excavating or constructing a canal or waterway to facilitate the controlled movement of water, allowing for irrigation, transport, or drainage purposes. This can include digging trenches, building embankments, or employing locks and dams to regulate the flow. In a broader context, canalize can be used to describe the process of shaping or molding something in a deliberate manner, dictating its flow, development, or outcome.
Metaphorically, canalize can encompass the concept of streamlining or directing a process, intention, or energy towards a particular direction or goal. It implies the act of focusing and optimizing resources or efforts towards a desired outcome, making efficient use of available inputs. This can involve organizing thoughts or emotions to achieve clarity or productivity, as well as concentrating resources or efforts to accomplish specific tasks or objectives. Canalizing may involve strategic planning, prioritization, and decision-making to ensure that resources and energies are directed towards the most effective and efficient pathways.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "canalize" is derived from the French word "canaliser", which comes from the noun "canal". "Canal" originates from the Latin word "canalis", meaning "pipe" or "channel". The verb form "canalize" emerged in the English language in the mid-19th century, primarily used in the sense of directing or channeling water through a canal system. Over time, the term expanded to have metaphorical uses as well, implying the concept of directing or channeling something in a more general sense.
