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Express vs Vent vs Utter vs Voice vs Broach vs Air vs Ventilate

Expressventuttervoicebroachairventilate are comparable when they mean to let out what one feels or thinks.

Express, the most comprehensive of these words, implies an impulse to reveal not only thoughts or feelings but also experiences, imaginative conceptions, and personality; it implies revelation not only in words but also in gestures, in action, in dress, or in what one makes or produces, especially as works of art.

Vent stresses such an inner compulsion to expression as a pent-up emotion that seeks an outlet or a powerful passion that cannot be controlled.

Utter stresses the use of voice; it does not, however, always imply speech. When speech is implied, it is typically both short and significant and the context may suggest a reason for secrecy as well as for revelation.

Voice does not necessarily imply vocal utterance, but it invariably suggests expression in words. ery often voice suggests that the writer or speaker serves as a spokesman expressing a shared view.

Broach stresses mention for the first time, especially of something long thought over and awaiting an opportune moment for disclosure.

Air implies exposure, often in the desire to parade one’s views, sometimes in the hope of attracting attention or sympathy.

Ventilate implies exposure also but usually suggests a desire to get at the truth by discovering the real issues or by weighing the evidence pro and con; it often means to investigate freely, openly, and thoroughly.