Divulge: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common and versatile, used in everyday conversations to inform, narrate, or instruct.

• Please tell me the story again
• He told everyone about his trip

Suitable for making something known emphatically, officially, or publicly.

• She declared her intention to run for mayor
• The country declared its independence

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