Informers: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is generally used to describe people who provide information to authorities, often in a formal or official capacity. It is a neutral term that can be used in both legal and social contexts.

• The police relied on informers to gather intelligence about the criminal organization.
• Several informers within the company leaked details about the merger to the press.

This term is used similarly to 'informers' but is more commonly used in legal and law enforcement contexts. It implies someone who provides valuable information, often in exchange for some form of compensation or protection.

• The undercover agent had several informants who provided crucial information about the drug trafficking ring.
• One of the key informants testified in court, leading to several convictions.

This term is similar to 'rats' in that it carries a negative connotation. It is often used in a colloquial or slang context to describe someone who tells on others, often leading to them getting into trouble. It implies a sense of betrayal, especially among peers.

• In school, no one liked the kid who was always snitching on others to the teachers.
• He was known as a snitch in the neighborhood because he always reported any suspicious activity to the authorities.

This term has a strong negative connotation and is used to describe someone who betrays their friends, colleagues, or associates by providing information to authorities or other parties. It implies disloyalty and treachery.

• After he was caught, he became a rat and betrayed his entire crew to the police.
• No one wanted to associate with him after he was labeled a rat.

Used to describe people who give information, often secretly, about someone else, typically to authorities or organizations. This term is neutral and does not necessarily imply illegal or unethical behavior.

• The police paid informers to gather information on the gang.
• The company has several informers inside the rival business.

Describes individuals who expose unethical, illegal, or unsafe practices within an organization or government, usually with the intent to bring about change. This term often carries a positive connotation of bravery and integrity.

• The whistleblower revealed the company's illegal dumping practices.
• Whistleblowers are often protected by law to prevent retaliation.

Refers to individuals who secretly collect and report confidential information, usually for government agencies. This term often carries a dramatic or secretive connotation.

• James Bond is one of the most famous fictional spies.
• The Cold War was a tense period marked by numerous spies working on both sides.

Used mainly in informal settings, especially involving children, to describe someone who reports on the misdeeds of others, often viewed negatively as someone who causes trouble by revealing secrets.

• Nobody likes a tattletale on the playground.
• Jimmy was called a tattletale for telling the teacher about his classmates' prank.