Revealing: meaning, definitions and examples

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revealing

 

[rɪˈviːlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

action

To make known something that was previously unknown or secret; to disclose or expose something hidden.

Synonyms

disclose, expose, uncover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
revealing

Used for providing details or information that were previously unknown, often in personal or sensitive contexts.

  • The documentary was very revealing about the artist's life.
  • Her diary entries were quite revealing, showing her true feelings.
disclose

Used in formal or legal contexts to provide information that is typically secret or confidential.

  • The company had to disclose its financial records to the auditors.
  • He disclosed his plans to move to a different city.
uncover

Used when discovering something that was deliberately hidden or not easily seen, often with an element of surprise or investigation.

  • Detectives worked tirelessly to uncover the truth about the case.
  • They uncovered ancient ruins while digging at the site.
expose

Often used when talking about revealing something hidden that is negative, corrupt, or harmful, and can have a negative connotation.

  • The journalist exposed the corruption within the government.
  • The scandal exposed the company's unethical practices.

Examples of usage

  • He was arrested for revealing classified information to the press.
  • The magician revealed the secret to his most famous trick.
Context #2 | Adjective

appearance

Allowing something that was previously hidden to become visible; making a person's thoughts or feelings clear to others.

Synonyms

evident, exposing, showing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
revealing

Used when something previously hidden is being disclosed. Often used for personal, secret, or sensitive information.

  • Her revealing dress attracted a lot of attention
  • The documentary was quite revealing about the corruption within the company
exposing

Used when something is being uncovered, often with a connotation of something negative or harmful being brought to light.

  • The journalist focused on exposing the illegal activities of the politician
  • The movie aimed at exposing the harsh realities of life in that era
showing

Used when something is being presented or demonstrated. It is a more general term that can be used in various situations.

  • The teacher was showing the students how to solve the problem
  • She has been showing great improvement in her grades recently
evident

Used when something is clear and obvious to see. Often relates to facts or truths that are easily observed.

  • The difference in their abilities was evident from the start
  • It was evident that she was excited about the news

Examples of usage

  • Her revealing dress caused quite a stir at the party.
  • His revealing statement shocked everyone present.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Middle English 'revele', which itself stems from the Old French 'reveler', meaning to unveil.
  • The root of the word includes 'veal', which means to cover, highlighting its transformation from hidden to visible.
  • In Latin, 'revelare' means to unveil, reinforcing the connection between uncovering and revealing.

Psychology

  • Revealing personal thoughts or feelings can foster deeper connections in relationships, a concept known as self-disclosure.
  • Studies show that people often feel relief after revealing secrets, indicating a positive emotional release.
  • The act of revealing can also lead to vulnerability, which is essential for personal growth and intimacy.

Art

  • In literature, revealing often refers to plot twists where critical information changes our understanding of the story.
  • Visual artists use revealing techniques, like light and shadow, to draw attention to particular elements in their work.
  • The act of revealing can serve as a powerful theme in cinema, where characters undergo transformations that change their identity.

Culture

  • Fashion shows often involve revealing outfits as a way to challenge social norms and express artistic vision.
  • In photography, the concept of revealing can relate to showcasing hidden emotions or truths through imagery.
  • Revealing one's culture or heritage can serve as a celebration of identity and promote understanding across diverse communities.

Science

  • In scientific research, revealing findings can lead to new discoveries that reshape our understanding of the universe.
  • The process of revealing data in transparent ways is crucial for ethical research practices and public trust.
  • In psychology, brain scans can reveal previously unknown aspects of human behavior and thought processes.

Translations

Translations of the word "revealing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 revelador

🇮🇳 प्रकट करने वाला

🇩🇪 enthüllend

🇮🇩 mengungkap

🇺🇦 викривальний

🇵🇱 ujawniający

🇯🇵 明らかにする

🇫🇷 révélateur

🇪🇸 revelador

🇹🇷 açıklayıcı

🇰🇷 드러내는

🇸🇦 كاشف

🇨🇿 odhalující

🇸🇰 odhaľujúci

🇨🇳 揭示

🇸🇮 razkrivajoč

🇮🇸 afhjúpandi

🇰🇿 әшкерелеу

🇬🇪 გამოსამჟღავნებელი

🇦🇿 açıqlayan

🇲🇽 revelador

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,720 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.