Whistleblowers: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a law enforcement context to describe a person who provides privileged information about criminal activities. It can have a negative or neutral connotation depending on the situation.

• The police rely on informants to gather information about the drug trade.
• An informant tipped off the authorities about the planned robbery.

Used to describe someone who reports illegal or unethical activities within an organization, usually with the intention of stopping the malpractice. Often has a connotation of bravery and seeking justice.

• The whistleblower exposed the company's fraudulent accounting practices.
• The law protects whistleblowers from retaliation.

Used to describe individuals who expose misconduct or illegal activities within an organization. Generally used in serious contexts such as corporate, government, or institutional settings.

• The government provided protection to whistleblowers who revealed corruption in the agency.
• Whistleblowers played a key role in uncovering the financial fraud.

Same as 'whistleblowers', but singular. Used to refer to an individual who exposes inappropriate or illegal actions in an organization. Usually strong and serious in tone.

• The company fired the whistleblower who reported the safety violations.
• A whistleblower revealed the environmental crimes committed by the corporation.

Refers to someone who provides confidential or secret information, often to the police or an authority. Can have a neutral or negative connotation depending on the situation.

• The police arrested the gang members with the help of an anonymous informant.
• Informants are crucial in gathering intelligence on criminal activities.

Typically used to describe someone who gives hints or information, often unofficially, about opportunities like betting, investments, or news. Can sometimes have a casual or informal tone.

• The tipster informed the newspaper about the celebrity’s secret wedding.
• He made a significant profit on the stock market thanks to a reliable tipster.