Declassify: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to making previously confidential or secret information accessible to the public. Often used in the context of government or military documents.

• The government decided to declassify the documents related to the Cold War.
• After 50 years, the report was finally declassified.

Used when providing or revealing information that was previously unknown or secret. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The company had to disclose its financial records during the audit.
• She refused to disclose the details of their conversation.

General term for making something known that was previously hidden. Can be used in both positive and negative situations.

• The magician revealed his trick to the audience.
• The investigation revealed several inconsistencies in the story.

Often used when discovering something previously hidden or unknown, frequently in the context of investigations or research.

• The archaeologists uncovered ancient artifacts during the dig.
• The detective uncovered new evidence in the case.

Typically used when revealing something hidden or illicit, often with a negative connotation. It suggests bringing something unfavorable to light.

• The journalist aimed to expose the corruption within the organization.
• The whistleblower exposed the company's illegal activities.

Use this word in formal contexts, especially in government or military settings, when discussing the release of previously restricted information.

• The government decided to declassify the documents after 50 years.
• The declassified information revealed new details about the incident.

This word is less common and is typically used in the same formal contexts as 'declassify,' though it might appear more in technical or bureaucratic language.

• The agency will unclassify the files next month.
• Efforts are underway to unclassify certain security protocols.

Use this word in general contexts when referring to removing any kind of limitation or restriction, not necessarily related to confidential information.

• The city council voted to unrestrict public access to the park.
• Unrestricting the data will allow more researchers to study it.