externalize

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to express thoughts or feelings in an outward, observable form

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

2. 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.

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.’

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