Insider: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who has special knowledge or access within an organization, often because they are part of it. Can be either neutral or positive depending on the context.

• As an insider, she knew about the company's expansion plans before anyone else.
• The insider trading scandal shook the financial community.

Commonly used in law enforcement contexts to describe someone who provides information, often secretly or covertly, usually in exchange for something. May carry a slightly negative or clandestine connotation.

• The police caught the gang thanks to a reliable informant.
• An informant tipped off the authorities about the illegal activities.

Refers to a person who works within an organization to secretly report back information, often to a rival or enemy. Strongly negative connotation, implying betrayal or espionage.

• They discovered the mole who had been leaking confidential information to their competitors.
• The spy thriller focused on finding the mole within the intelligence agency.

Describes someone who exposes secretive or unethical activities within their organization to the public or authorities. Generally seen in a positive light, emphasizing bravery and a sense of justice.

• The whistleblower revealed the company's environmental violations.
• He became a whistleblower after discovering the widespread corruption in the department.

This word is usually used in situations where someone has special access or knowledge within a particular group or organization, often implying secrecy or exclusivity.

• As an insider in the company, she knew about the deal before it was announced.
• The journalist spoke to an insider who revealed details about the political scandal.

This word fits well when referring to someone who has a high level of knowledge or skill in a particular area, often through experience and education. It generally has a positive connotation.

• She is an expert in cybersecurity, with over 15 years of experience in the field.
• We need an expert to help us solve this complex engineering problem.

This term is best used to describe someone or something that is generally recognized as having expertise and the power to make decisions or judgments in a particular area. It can refer to individuals or institutions.

• Dr. Smith is an authority on climate change and has published numerous papers on the topic.
• The health authority issued new guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.