While both 'reveal' and 'disclose' refer to the act of making something known, their nuances lie in the nature of what is unveiled, the intent behind the action, and the typical subject matter. 'Reveal' often implies an uncovering of something previously hidden or unknown, potentially even profound or supernatural, whereas 'disclose' typically refers to the intentional imparting of information, especially something previously kept secret or confidential.
Understanding "Reveal"
To "reveal" means to make something visible or known that was previously hidden, secret, or unknown. This act can be intentional, accidental, or even a natural process of something coming to light. The focus is often on the unveiling itself, bringing something into view or understanding.
- Nature of Unveiling: It can apply to the unveiling of something previously hidden or unknown, often suggesting a gradual process or an inherent characteristic coming to light. For instance, a landscape might be revealed as the fog lifts, or a person's true character might be revealed under pressure.
- Subject Matter: "Reveal" can refer to a wide range of things, from physical objects and hidden talents to abstract truths, emotions, or even spiritual insights. Notably, 'reveal' may also encompass supernatural or inspired revelations of truths that transcend ordinary human vision or reason.
- Intent: The act of revealing can be spontaneous, a discovery, or an intentional act.
- Examples:
- The curtains revealed a magnificent stage design.
- Her actions revealed her true intentions.
- A new archaeological dig revealed an ancient city.
- Many artists believe their works reveal a deeper truth about human existence.
For further context, you can explore the definition of reveal on Merriam-Webster.
Understanding "Disclose"
To "disclose" means to make secret or private information known. This term strongly emphasizes the deliberate act of sharing information that was previously confidential or not publicly available. The focus here is on the imparting of information and the breaking of secrecy.
- Nature of Unveiling: The term 'disclose' largely pertains to the act of making information, particularly that which was previously kept secret, known. It often implies a deliberate and formal act of imparting information.
- Subject Matter: "Disclose" almost exclusively deals with information, facts, data, secrets, or confidential details. It's less about physical objects coming into view and more about the communication of facts.
- Intent: Disclosure is nearly always an intentional and often formal act, driven by a need or obligation to share information.
- Examples:
- The company was legally obligated to disclose its financial records.
- She refused to disclose the source of her information.
- Doctors must disclose all potential risks before a procedure.
- He disclosed a long-held family secret during the reunion.
You can find more on the meaning of disclose on Oxford Learner's Dictionaries.
Key Distinctions at a Glance
To highlight the differences, consider this table:
| Aspect | Reveal | Disclose |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of Act | Uncovering something hidden, unknown, or coming into view; can be gradual or inherent. | Intentionally imparting information, often previously secret or confidential. |
| Subject Matter | Can be an object, feeling, truth, characteristic, or a profound/supernatural insight. | Primarily information, facts, data, or secrets. |
| Intent | Can be accidental, natural, or deliberate; less about secrecy and more about discovery. | Typically deliberate and often formal; focused on breaking secrecy or confidentiality. |
| Scope | Wider, encompassing physical things, abstract truths, emotions, and even spiritual insights. | Narrower, almost exclusively dealing with making previously secret or private information known. |
Practical Applications and Examples
Understanding the subtle differences can help in precise communication:
- When to Use "Reveal":
- When something becomes apparent or visible: "The sun revealed the path."
- When a character trait or truth becomes known, often through actions: "His generosity was revealed during the crisis."
- In the context of discovery or prophecy: "The ancient text revealed a lost history."
- For dramatic effect or an unfolding: "The magician revealed the trick."
- When to Use "Disclose":
- In legal or business contexts where information must be shared: "The company must disclose its assets."
- When sharing sensitive or confidential information: "She chose to disclose her medical condition."
- Referring to secrets being told: "He promised not to disclose their secret plans."
- In journalism or official statements: "The report disclosed new evidence."
In essence, while both words illuminate what was once dark, 'reveal' suggests a broader, sometimes more passive or profound unveiling, whereas 'disclose' implies a more active, deliberate, and often formal act of making specific information public that was previously private.
