Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/dɪsˈkloʊz/

Definitions

• Verb: To make (something) known; to reveal or uncover information, facts, or details that were previously hidden or secret.
• Verb: To expose something to the public or make it visible to others.

Usage Examples

• "The company was required to disclose its financial records to the public."
• "The government disclosed new information about the investigation."
• "She was hesitant to disclose the details of her personal life to her coworkers."

Etymology

The word "disclose" comes from the Latin word "dis-" meaning "apart" or "away," combined with "clausus," meaning "closed." The word originally meant to open or uncover something that was previously shut, and it evolved to its modern meaning of revealing or making information known.

Synonyms

• Reveal
• Expose
• Uncover
• Divulge
• Announce
• Make public
• Broadcast

Antonyms

• Conceal
• Hide
• Suppress
• Cover
• Keep secret
• Withhold

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "disclose" is generally consistent across various regions, with slight differences in accent. In British English, the pronunciation tends to emphasize a softer "s" sound, while American English tends to pronounce it more sharply. However, the IPA pronunciation remains largely consistent in both dialects.

Historical Usage

The term "disclose" has been in use since the late Middle Ages. It originally referred to the act of opening something that was sealed or hidden, especially in the context of legal documents or official communications. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the act of revealing private or confidential information in both legal and personal contexts. Today, it is often used in contexts involving transparency and the sharing of information.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the concept of disclosure is closely tied to ideas of trust and secrecy. For example, in business and politics, the disclosure of certain information may be required by law to maintain transparency and accountability. In personal relationships, however, the decision to disclose sensitive information can be viewed as an act of vulnerability and trust. In some cultures, withholding information or failing to disclose it can be seen as deceitful or unethical.

More Information

The act of disclosing information plays a significant role in many professional and legal environments. For instance, in the field of law, disclosure refers to the formal process of revealing evidence or facts during legal proceedings. In finance, companies are required to disclose financial information to ensure transparency and protect investors. The advent of digital communication has further transformed the nature of disclosure, with online platforms and social media enabling the rapid dissemination of information to a global audience. In addition, ethical considerations often surround the act of disclosure, especially in cases where the information being disclosed could impact individuals' privacy or security.