disclose

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb disclose differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of disclose are betray, divulge, reveal, and tell. While all these words mean "to make known what has been or should be concealed," disclose may imply a discovering but more often an imparting of information previously kept secret.

candidates must disclose their financial assets

Where would betray be a reasonable alternative to disclose?

The synonyms betray and disclose are sometimes interchangeable, but betray implies a divulging that represents a breach of faith or an involuntary or unconscious disclosure.

a blush that betrayed her embarrassment

In what contexts can divulge take the place of disclose?

While the synonyms divulge and disclose are close in meaning, divulge implies a disclosure involving some impropriety or breach of confidence.

refused to divulge an anonymous source

When would reveal be a good substitute for disclose?

While in some cases nearly identical to disclose, reveal may apply to supernatural or inspired revelation of truths beyond the range of ordinary human vision or reason.

divine will as revealed in sacred writings

When is it sensible to use tell instead of disclose?

In some situations, the words tell and disclose are roughly equivalent. However, tell implies an imparting of necessary or useful information.

told them what he had overheard

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Cite this Entry

“Disclose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disclose. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

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