Learn English – If “verbalize” puts thoughts into spoken word, what about putting thoughts into written word?

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If "verbalize" puts thoughts into spoken word, what about putting thoughts into written word?

I considered document, record, but neither capture the visualization of "writing" the way verbalize captures "speaking".

Here is an example sentence where I would like to replace verbalize:

I have always thought this, but I have never been able to verbalize the sentiment.

I am also aware, verbalize may be used, but I'd like to use something more explicitly indicating writing.

Best Answer

The phrasal verbs (which I consider a single word) might work for you. Depending on the context, you could use either

write out 1. To express or compose in writing

or, for more prosaic writings,

write down 1. To set down in writing.

[American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. S.v. "write." Retrieved March 14 2016 from http://www.thefreedictionary.com/write ]

So, I would use the first for your example:

I have always thought this, but I have never been able to write out the sentiment.

For less informal terms, 'pen' and 'indite' suggest themselves. 'Pen' has, in my experience, the elegance of brevity and succinctness:

pen
tr.v. penned, pen·ning, pens
To write or compose.

'Indite', on the other hand, is more ponderous and official in tone, and seems somewhat tainted by archaism:

in·dite (ĭn-dīt′)
tr.v. in·dit·ed, in·dit·ing, in·dites
....
2. To set down in writing.

(op. cit.)

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