externalize

C2 Topic:Actions & Processes

Also spelled externalised and externalising

US /ɪkˈstɝːnəlaɪz/ UK /ɪkˈstɜːnəlaɪz/ See IPA manual

Freq #136268

Meanings

1

verb
to express thoughts or feelings in an outward, observable form

She uses painting to externalize emotions that are difficult to discuss.
2

verb
to treat an internal problem, cause, or responsibility as if it came from outside

The manager tried to externalize the blame for the failed project.

Verb forms

Verb forms are not available for this word yet.

Thesaurus

Synonyms

1 verb · to express thoughts or... express embody objectify

2 verb · to treat an internal... project displace

Opposites

internalize

Word family

Derived forms externalizableexternalizationexternalizerunexternalized

Related forms external externality

Etymology

Formed in English from external and the verb-forming suffix -ize. External comes through French and Late Latin from Latin externus, meaning ‘outside’ or ‘outward.’

Topics

Actions & Processes Word Formation & Derivatives

External links

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