Informers: meaning, definitions and examples
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informers
[ɪnˈfɔː.mərz ]
Definitions
criminal activity
People who provide information to the police or authorities, often in exchange for money or leniency. Informers are typically involved in criminal organizations and may be considered traitors by their associates.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| informers |
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.
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| informants |
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.
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| snitches |
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.
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| rats |
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.
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Examples of usage
- He was caught by the informers and now faces a long prison sentence.
- The informers within the gang helped the police dismantle the entire operation.
historical context
In former times, informers were individuals who reported on the activities of others to the authorities, often leading to severe consequences such as imprisonment or even death. Informers were commonly used in totalitarian regimes to maintain control and suppress dissent.
Synonyms
spies, tattletales, whistleblowers.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| informers |
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.
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| whistleblowers |
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.
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| spies |
Refers to individuals who secretly collect and report confidential information, usually for government agencies. This term often carries a dramatic or secretive connotation.
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| tattletales |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The informers in the Soviet Union played a crucial role in identifying dissidents.
- The fear of being labeled an informer prevented many from speaking out against the government.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'informare', meaning to shape or teach, emphasizing the role of someone who provides knowledge.
- It has been used in English since the 14th century, highlighting the long history of sharing information.
- The suffix '-er' indicates someone performing an action, making an informer someone who informs.
Law & Crime
- Informers often provide tips to law enforcement about criminal activity, which can lead to arrests and investigations.
- In some cases, informers may receive payments or reduced sentences for their cooperation with authorities.
- The use of informers has raised ethical questions regarding their safety and motivation, especially in organized crime.
Culture & Society
- In literature and film, informers are often portrayed as complex characters, sometimes seen as heroes or villains depending on their motives.
- Cultural beliefs about informers can vary widely—some view them as protectors of community safety, while others see them as betrayers.
- In historical contexts, using informers has been a common tactic for governments to maintain control, especially during tumultuous times.
Psychology
- The act of informing can reveal much about an individual's moral compass and motivations, which can be driven by personal beliefs or societal pressures.
- Research suggests that informers may experience feelings of guilt or anxiety, especially if their information leads to negative consequences for others.
- Social dynamics often influence the decision to inform, where loyalty to friends or community can clash with the desire to share important information.
Technology
- In the digital age, informers can also refer to whistleblowers who expose wrongdoing in organizations, using technology to share information quickly.
- Social media has transformed the way informers spread information, enabling rapid dissemination but also raising issues about misinformation and credibility.
- The rise of cybersecurity emphasizes the role of informers in identifying breaches and protecting sensitive information.
Translations
Translations of the word "informers" in other languages:
🇵🇹 informantes
🇮🇳 सूचना देने वाले
🇩🇪 Informanten
🇮🇩 informan
🇺🇦 інформатори
🇵🇱 informatorzy
🇯🇵 情報提供者
🇫🇷 informateurs
🇪🇸 informantes
🇹🇷 muhbirler
🇰🇷 정보 제공자
🇸🇦 مخبرون
🇨🇿 informátoři
🇸🇰 informátori
🇨🇳 告密者
🇸🇮 informatorji
🇮🇸 uppljóstrarar
🇰🇿 ақпарат берушілер
🇬🇪 ინფორმატორები
🇦🇿 məlumatçılar
🇲🇽 informantes