Divulge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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divulge

[dɪˈvʌldʒ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a conversation

Make known (private or sensitive information).

Synonyms

disclose, expose, reveal, uncover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
divulge	Use when sharing sensitive or private information that was meant to be kept secret, often in an informal or accidental manner. She promised not to divulge his secret to anyone
reveal	General and can be used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate making something known that was previously hidden or unknown. The magician refused to reveal how he performed the trick
disclose	Appropriate in formal or professional settings when officially making information known, especially in legal or financial contexts. The company is required to disclose its financial records to the investors
expose	Fit for situations where hidden details, often of a scandalous or dishonest nature, are brought to public attention. Carries a negative connotation. The journalist wrote an article to expose the corruption within the government
uncover	Often used in investigative settings when something hidden or secret is discovered, especially after effort or research. Through extensive investigation, the detectives were able to uncover the truth about the crime

Examples of usage

He refused to divulge information about his clients.
She finally agreed to divulge the secret.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in a formal setting

To disclose or reveal (something private, secret, or previously unknown).

Synonyms

communicate, confess, declare, tell.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
divulge	Used when revealing something secretive or confidential, often with a formal or serious tone. She refused to divulge the name of her informant The company will not divulge its trade secrets
confess	Best used when admitting to something wrong or embarrassing, often personal and with a sense of guilt. He confessed to stealing the money I must confess, I haven't been honest with you
tell	Common and versatile, used in everyday conversations to inform, narrate, or instruct. Please tell me the story again He told everyone about his trip
declare	Suitable for making something known emphatically, officially, or publicly. She declared her intention to run for mayor The country declared its independence
communicate	Appropriate for general situations of sharing or exchanging information or ideas, can range from casual to formal. We need to communicate more effectively as a team He communicated his findings to the rest of the group

Examples of usage

The company refused to divulge financial details.
She was hesitant to divulge her true feelings.

Translations

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

Origin of 'divulge'

The word 'divulge' originated from the Latin word 'divulgare', which means 'to publish abroad, make common'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century, originally used in the context of making something known to the public. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the act of revealing or disclosing private or sensitive information.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,550, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20547 progenitors
20548 harming
20549 corroded
20550 divulge
20551 defraying
20552 musing
20553 navigators
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