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

Solution 1:

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.)

Solution 2:

Consider transcribe

put (thoughts, speech, or data) into written or printed form. (MW)

"The senator's speech was transcribed."

Solution 3:

I would suggest articulate or express

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

Although verbalize itself may be fitting in a written sense too.

Solution 4:

Consider textualize

To render (an oral narrative, for example) in written form, especially in a permanent, rigid, or authoritative form. (AHDEL/TFD)

: to put into text : set down as concrete and unchanging (the novel textualizes complex emotions) (MW)

Though the usage of this may be for more formal writing, similar to putting something in black and white.