Meaning & use
express verbally
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Meanings
phrasefixed phrase
to say something in words, especially by speaking rather than writing or showing it
Grammar: Used as a verb phrase; it takes an object, e.g. 'express your feelings verbally'.
Patterns
- express something verbally
- express yourself verbally
She found it hard to express her emotions verbally, so she wrote them in a diary.
The teacher asked us to express our ideas verbally, not just on paper.
He expressed his thanks verbally, but he also sent a card.
phrasefixed phrase
to communicate a message using spoken words rather than written or signed language
Grammar: Often used to contrast with other ways of communicating, such as writing or signing.
Patterns
- communicate something verbally
- express something verbally to someone
In many cultures, important agreements are expressed verbally before anything is written down.
The witness expressed her account verbally to the police officer.
Some people prefer to express their thoughts verbally in a group discussion.
Common combinations
- express verbally
- He expressed his apology verbally, which felt more sincere than a text.
- communicate verbally
- The team communicates verbally during meetings but uses email for details.
- verbally express
- It can be difficult to verbally express complex feelings.
Synonyms and how they differ
- say
- Simple and direct; it focuses on the act of speaking words, while 'express verbally' often suggests putting feelings or ideas into words.
- state
- More formal and often used for facts or opinions; 'express verbally' is broader and can include emotions.
- voice
- Emphasizes making an opinion or feeling known, often publicly; 'express verbally' is more neutral about the audience.
Opposites
Word family
- verbal adjective
- Relating to words or speech, e.g. a verbal agreement.
- verbally adverb
- In spoken words; the adverb form used in this phrase.
- expression noun
- The act of putting thoughts or feelings into words, or a word or phrase.
Commonly confused: express verbally or oral?
express verbally vs oral
Oral means relating to the mouth or spoken rather than written; it is often used for exams or medicine. 'Verbally' is more general and can refer to any use of words, but it typically means spoken.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'express verbally' correctly?
Choose one answer.
Option B correctly uses 'express' with an object ('his concerns') and the adverb 'verbally' to mean he spoke them. Option An is wrong because slamming a door is not verbal. Option C is wrong because you cannot 'express a painting' — you express ideas or feelings. Option D is wrong because 'to write a letter' is not a verbal expression; it is a written one.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “express verbally”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.