divulge
To reveal or make known information that was previously private or secret
Examples
In a meeting
“We cannot divulge client information without written consent.”
Over coffee
“Come on, divulge the secret—where are we going for your birthday?”
Why this word
reveal
divulge emphasizes disclosing information that was private or secret, while reveal is broader about making anything known
tell
divulge specifically means disclosing confidential or sensitive information, while tell is general for communicating anything
disclose
divulge often implies revealing secrets inappropriately or reluctantly, while disclose is more neutral about making information known
Usage tip
Use when information is being shared that was meant to be confidential. Implies deliberate disclosure of protected information.
Etymology
Latin 'divulgare' (di- 'widely' + vulgare 'publish', from vulgus 'common people')
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.