Disclose Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disclose

[dɪsˈkləʊz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a conversation

To make something known or reveal something that was previously hidden or secret. It can refer to sharing personal information or confidential details.

Synonyms

confess, divulge, expose, reveal, uncover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
disclose	Use this word when sharing or making something known, often used in formal or legal situations. The company had to disclose its earnings report to the public. She was required to disclose all relevant information during the investigation.
reveal	Commonly used in both formal and informal situations to make known something that was previously secret or unknown. The magician revealed the secrets of his tricks. The study revealed important data about climate change.
expose	This term is often used to bring something hidden or wrong to public attention, frequently carrying a negative connotation. The journalist worked hard to expose the corruption within the government. He was exposed as a fraud.
uncover	Use this word when talking about discovering something that was hidden or not immediately obvious, often in investigative contexts. Investigative journalists uncovered the scandal. They uncovered old artifacts during the excavation.
divulge	Best used when referring to sharing private, secret, or sensitive information, often implying reluctance. She refused to divulge the details of their conversation. It is not wise to divulge personal information to strangers.
confess	This word is generally used when admitting to something wrong or a secret, often with emotional or moral undertones. He decided to confess his crime to the police. After years of silence, she finally confessed her feelings.

Examples of usage

He decided to disclose his true feelings to her.
The company was forced to disclose their financial records.
She chose not to disclose her identity to the public.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

legal context

To make information available to the public, especially in compliance with laws or regulations.

Synonyms

communicate, declare, publish, report, reveal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
disclose	Used when making information known, often in a formal or legal context. The company had to disclose its financial statements. She chose to disclose her medical condition to her employer.
reveal	Used when making something known that was previously hidden or unknown. Can have dramatic or emotional implications. The magician finally revealed his trick. She revealed a secret about her past.
publish	Used when distributing information to the public, commonly associated with printed or digital media. The author published a new book. They decided to publish the research findings in a journal.
report	Typically used in a formal or professional context to give a detailed account of something. The incident was reported to the police. Journalists report the news.
declare	Often used in a formal setting to make an official or emphatic statement. He declared his candidacy for president. The government declared a state of emergency.
communicate	Used in everyday situations when sharing information or ideas with others. They communicate through email regularly. It's important to communicate your feelings in a relationship.

Examples of usage

The organization is required to disclose its annual budget.
The court ordered the defendant to disclose all relevant documents.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

business context

The act of revealing or making known information that was previously confidential.

Synonyms

announcement, declaration, exposure, openness, reveal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
disclose	Used in formal contexts when revealing confidential or new information, often tied to legal or official matters. The company had to disclose its financial statements to the regulatory body
reveal	Generic and can be used in most situations of making something known, especially something surprising or previously hidden. The magician will reveal his tricks at the end of the show
announcement	Suitable for public or formal communication when making important information known to a group of people. The school made an announcement about the new principal
declaration	Appropriate when making a formal or emphatic statement, often in a legal, official, or personal context. She made a declaration of her intention to run for office
exposure	Commonly used when talking about making something hidden visible, often with a negative connotation, such as revealing something deceitful or harmful. The exposure of the politician's scandal was all over the news
openness	Ideal in contexts emphasizing transparency, honesty, and communication. Used to describe a general attitude or approach rather than a single instance of revealing information. Their openness about the challenges they faced was appreciated by everyone

Examples of usage

The disclosure of the merger plans had a significant impact on the stock prices.
Full disclosure of the terms and conditions is necessary before signing the contract.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

In law, disclosing information can be crucial during trials, where both sides must 'disclose' evidence to ensure fairness.
Financial disclosures are mandatory for publicly traded companies, allowing shareholders to understand the company's status.
Health professionals are often required to disclose certain patient information under regulations to protect public health.

Cultural Significance

Culturally, the act of disclosure is significant during coming-of-age rituals, where secrets are shared as a part of growing up.
In literature, the theme of disclosure often revolves around characters revealing deep secrets, affecting relationships and plots.
In many cultures, sharing personal information can strengthen bonds, but it can also involve trust and vulnerability.

Psychology

Disclosure is seen as an important part of psychological health; discussing worries can alleviate anxiety.
The 'self-disclosure' theory in psychology suggests that sharing personal details can increase intimacy in relationships.
People often feel a sense of relief after disclosing secrets, as it may counter feelings of isolation.

Environmental Context

In environmental science, disclosing information about pollutants is essential for community awareness and advocacy.
Many organizations are now required to disclose their carbon footprints to promote transparency in sustainability efforts.
Public disclosure of environmental data helps communities take action towards protecting their local ecosystems.

Origin of 'disclose'

Main points about word origin

The term 'disclose' comes from the Middle English 'disclosen', meaning to reveal or uncover.
It is derived from the Latin 'disclaudere', where 'dis-' means 'opposite of' and 'claudere' means 'to close'.
The use of 'disclose' in legal contexts began in the 14th century, highlighting its importance in revealing information.

The word 'disclose' originated from the Latin word 'disclosus', which is the past participle of 'disclore', meaning 'to uncover' or 'to reveal'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, 'disclose' has evolved to refer to the act of making something known or revealing information that was previously hidden. The concept of disclosure is fundamental in various fields, including law, business, and personal relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,289 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6286 magistrate
6287 solitary
6288 recipients
6289 disclose
6290 horn
6291 spaced
6292 turbine
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