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Reveal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reveal

[rɪˈviːl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

showing something hidden

To make something known that was previously secret or unknown. It can involve disclosing information, unveiling a truth, or exposing a hidden aspect.

Synonyms

disclose, expose, uncover, unveil.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reveal

Use when showing something that was hidden or secret, often in a dramatic way.

  • She revealed the surprise party to her friend
  • The magician revealed his trick to the audience
disclose

Common in formal or legal contexts, this word means to make something known, especially information that was secret.

  • The company had to disclose its financial records
  • He disclosed his plans to the board
unveil

Often used in the context of revealing something new or something that has been kept secret until a moment of public announcement or presentation.

  • The artist unveiled her latest sculpture
  • The company unveiled its new product line
expose

This word often carries a negative connotation and is used when making something hidden known, especially if it is unethical or illegal.

  • The journalist exposed the corruption in the government
  • The investigation exposed the truth about the scandal
uncover

Used when finding or discovering something that was hidden, often through investigation.

  • The detective uncovered new evidence in the case
  • They uncovered the old manuscript in the attic

Examples of usage

  • He decided to reveal his true identity to his family.
  • The magician revealed the card that the audience member had chosen.
  • The investigation revealed shocking details about the crime.
Context #2 | Noun

a surprising or previously unknown fact

Something that was previously hidden or unknown that is now made known. It can refer to a surprising truth, a hidden talent, or an unexpected aspect of a situation.

Synonyms

disclosure, discovery, surprise, unveiling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reveal

Used when making something known that was previously hidden or secret, often with an element of surprise.

  • She finally decided to reveal the truth about her past
  • The magician's reveal left the audience in awe
disclosure

Appropriate in formal or legal contexts when providing specific information that was previously confidential or secret.

  • The company's financial disclosure was released yesterday
  • Full disclosure of the terms is required by law
discovery

Used when finding out something new, typically something that was previously unknown, often in scientific or investigative contexts.

  • The archeologists' discovery of the ancient city was groundbreaking
  • She made a shocking discovery while cleaning the attic
unveiling

Used in formal settings, often referring to the presentation or introduction of something new, such as a product, artwork, or plan.

  • The artist's unveiling of her new sculpture was a great success
  • The unveiling of the latest smartphone model attracted a lot of attention
surprise

Used for unexpected events or information that causes astonishment or wonder, typically with a positive or neutral connotation.

  • He planned a surprise party for her birthday
  • The surprise announcement caught everyone off guard

Examples of usage

  • The revelation that she had a twin sister was a shock to everyone.
  • The movie had a big reveal at the end that left the audience speechless.
  • The reveal of his artistic skills surprised his classmates.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'reveal'

The word 'reveal' comes from the Middle English 'revelen', which in turn comes from the Old French 'reveler', meaning 'to reveal, uncover'. It has been used in English since the 14th century and has evolved to encompass the idea of making something previously hidden or secret known to others.

See also: revealable, revealed, revealing, reveals, revelation, revelations, unrevealed.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,420, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.