Informed: meaning, definitions and examples

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informed

 

[ɪnˈfɔːmd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

well-informed

Having or showing knowledge of a particular subject or situation; educated or aware.

Synonyms

aware, educated, enlightened, instructed, knowledgeable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
informed

Used when someone has received information or updates about something. It implies having current and accurate information.

  • She stays informed about the latest news through various news channels
  • He is well-informed about the company's financial status
knowledgeable

Used when someone has extensive information or expertise in a particular area. It implies a high degree of understanding and familiarity with a subject.

  • She is knowledgeable about ancient history
  • He is very knowledgeable in computer programming
educated

Used when referring to someone who has received formal education or has a broad understanding of various subjects. It implies a level of schooling or academic learning.

  • He is educated in multiple languages
  • She is highly educated in the field of physics
aware

Used when someone has general knowledge or consciousness about a situation or fact. It often implies recognition of a fact more than detailed understanding.

  • She is aware of the environmental issues impacting the planet
  • Are you aware that the meeting has been postponed?
instructed

Used when someone has been given directions or teaching on how to do something. It implies receiving guidance or commands.

  • The students were instructed to complete the assignment by Friday
  • He was instructed on how to properly handle the machinery
enlightened

Used when someone has gained profound understanding or insight, often through education or personal growth. It focuses on wisdom and a deeper level of comprehension.

  • After the seminar, he felt enlightened about mindfulness
  • She had an enlightened perspective on social justice

Examples of usage

  • It's important to be well-informed about current events.
  • She is always well-informed about the latest technological advancements.
  • Being well-informed can help you make better decisions.
  • He is known for being well-informed about global politics.
  • The journalist is well-informed about the industry trends.
Context #2 | Verb

informed them of

Tell (someone) about a particular situation or occurrence.

Synonyms

advise, alert, brief, notify, update.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
informed

Used when someone is made knowledgeable about specific details or updates.

  • He was informed about the changes in the schedule.
  • Customers were informed of the new product launch.
notify

Used when formally or officially informing someone about something. Generally implies some sort of official or required communication.

  • The school notified parents about the upcoming holiday.
  • You will be notified of any changes to your reservation.
advise

Used when giving recommendations or suggestions about what someone should do. It involves a sense of guidance or counsel.

  • The doctor advised him to take more rest.
  • She advised her friend on the best course of action.
brief

Used when giving someone essential information in a short or concise manner. Often used in professional or formal settings.

  • The manager briefed the team on the new policy changes.
  • The lawyer briefed her client before the meeting.
update

Used when providing the most recent information or changes regarding something. It implies that the information is current.

  • Please update me on the status of the project.
  • He updated his profile with the latest details.
alert

Used when warning someone about immediate danger or making them aware of something urgent. It often has a sense of urgency.

  • The weather service alerted residents about the approaching storm.
  • Security was alerted to the suspicious activity.

Examples of usage

  • I informed them of the changes in the schedule.
  • She informed me of the latest updates on the project.
  • Please inform the team of the new policies.
  • He informed his colleagues of the upcoming meeting.
  • The teacher informed the students of the exam dates.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'informed' comes from the Latin 'informare,' meaning to shape or give form to knowledge.
  • In its earliest use in English during the 14th century, it indicated being instructed or educated.
  • Over time, the meaning evolved to emphasize not just education but also awareness and understanding.

Education

  • Research shows that being informed can significantly improve academic performance and critical thinking.
  • Active learning strategies, such as discussions and debates, help individuals become better informed on various subjects.
  • Information literacy is a key skill taught in schools, necessary for navigating today’s vast amount of information.

Psychology

  • Studies indicate that being informed reduces anxiety and uncertainty by providing a clearer understanding of situations.
  • Cognitive biases can affect how informed a person feels; for example, the Dunning-Kruger effect shows that less informed individuals often overestimate their knowledge.
  • The 'information overload' phenomenon describes how too much information can actually leave people feeling less informed and more confused.

Technology

  • Access to the internet has drastically changed how people become informed, making information more accessible than ever.
  • Social media can be a double-edged sword, often spreading misinformation as easily as accurate updates.
  • Digital literacy is essential in the information age, helping individuals navigate and assess the credibility of online content.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'knowledge is power' is frequently referenced in music and literature, highlighting the value of being informed.
  • Important figures in history, such as journalists and activists, have often emphasized the necessity for an informed public in democracies.
  • Television shows and documentaries often aim to educate viewers by informing them about social issues and current events.

Translations

Translations of the word "informed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 informado

🇮🇳 सूचित (soochit)

🇩🇪 informiert

🇮🇩 terinformasi

🇺🇦 поінформований

🇵🇱 poinformowany

🇯🇵 通知された (tsūchi sa reta)

🇫🇷 informé

🇪🇸 informado

🇹🇷 bilgilendirilmiş

🇰🇷 알려진 (allyeojin)

🇸🇦 مطلع (mutṭaliʿ)

🇨🇿 informovaný

🇸🇰 informovaný

🇨🇳 知情 (zhī qíng)

🇸🇮 obveščen

🇮🇸 upplýstur

🇰🇿 хабардар

🇬🇪 ინფორმირებული (informirebuli)

🇦🇿 məlumatlı

🇲🇽 informado

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,835, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.