vocalize

USAGE SUMMARY

"vocalize" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to mean expressing something in words, speaking aloud, or producing a particular sound with your voice. For example, "She vocalized her opinion on the matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Many crocodiles vocalize to communicate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is another type of adaptive, antipredatory behaviour, as it would be dangerous for the nestlings to gape and vocalize in response to any environmental disturbance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most are noisemakers and can "vocalize" by moving strong muscles attached to the air bladder, which acts as a resonating chamber, amplifying the sounds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Males typically vocalize for a minute or more; calls up to five minutes in length have been recorded, giving the call its name.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Infants who do not have a particular adult devoted to their care often do not become strongly attached to any one adult and are less socially responsive less likely to smile, vocalize, laugh, or approach adults.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although six-month-old infants may look at and vocalize to other infants, they do not initiate reciprocal social play with them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Communication does not necessarily imply language, and it can simply be one-way, as when one dolphin knows another is present because the second dolphin is vocalizing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The opera, which in 2005 won an Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Opera, is notable for the instrumental treatment of the part of Ariel, whose coloratura vocalizing contributes to create the supernatural atmosphere that underscores the whole piece.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Because vocalizing is part of their mating and territorial behaviour, their ears are also well developed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

and, by extension, vocalizes, or exercises sung to a single vowel, often florid and difficult to master.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The rutting buck waves its antlers conspicuously toward the female that it follows in courtship, and it vocalizes loudly with each dip of the antlers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "vocalize" when you want to emphasize the act of making a sound or expressing something audibly, whether it's a human speaking or an animal making a noise.

Common error

Avoid using "vocalize" when you specifically mean putting thoughts or feelings into words; "verbalize" is more appropriate in that context. "Vocalize" refers more broadly to making sounds.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "vocalize" is as a verb. It describes the action of producing sound or expressing something audibly. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use across various contexts, confirming its active role in expressing action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vocalize" is a versatile verb used to describe the act of making sounds or expressing something verbally. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, as shown by Ludwig. Its usage spans from scientific descriptions of animal communication to news reports and formal discussions. While "vocalize" and "verbalize" are sometimes confused, remember that "vocalize" refers broadly to making sounds, while "verbalize" is specific to expressing thoughts in words. This guide provides best practices, common errors, and related phrases to help you use "vocalize" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vocalise

This is an alternative spelling, mainly used in British English; it also refers to singing without words.

verbalize

This focuses on putting thoughts or feelings into words.

express verbally

This phrase explicitly indicates conveying thoughts or feelings through spoken words.

articulate

This term focuses on the clarity and precision of expressing something verbally.

give voice to

This suggests representing or expressing the thoughts or feelings of someone or something else.

utter

This implies a simple act of speaking or making a sound, often brief.

speak out

Implies expressing one's opinion or protesting something, often publicly.

enunciate

Similar to 'articulate', emphasizing clear and distinct pronunciation.

pronounce

This refers to the act of saying a word or sound correctly.

make a sound

This is a general term for producing any kind of noise.

FAQs

How can I use "vocalize" in a sentence?

You can use "vocalize" to describe the act of making a sound, like "The singer began to "vocalise" before the performance" or expressing something with your voice, like "She needed to "express her concerns", so she vocalized them at the meeting".

What's the difference between "vocalize" and "verbalize"?

"Vocalize" means to produce sound with the voice, while "verbalize" means to express something in words. You "verbalize your thoughts", and a bird "vocalizes a song".

What are some synonyms for "vocalize"?

Alternatives for "vocalize" include "articulate", "utter", "express verbally", or "give voice to", depending on the context.

Is it correct to spell it "vocalise" or "vocalize"?

Both "vocalise" and "vocalize" are correct, but "vocalize" is more common in American English, while "vocalise" is frequently used in British English.