C1nounformal5K

Disclosure

UK /["/dɪsˈkləʊʒə(r)/"]/US /["/dɪsˈkləʊʒər/"]/

Definition

the act of making something known or public that was previously secret or private

In simple words: The act of making something public or known, especially information.

Examples

  • the newspaper’s disclosure of defence secrets
  • The bank will need full disclosure of your financial situation and assets.
  • The court ruled to prevent public disclosure of the contents of the documents.
  • startling disclosures about his private life

Usage notes

Often used in legal, financial, or official contexts. Not appropriate in casual conversations. Be careful when using it to imply revealing sensitive information.

Grammar pattern

disclosure + of object

Memory hint

Think of 'dis-close' — when you close something, you usually reveal or disclose it!

Collocations

  • full disclosure
  • financial disclosure
  • disclosure agreement
  • confidential disclosure
  • public disclosure

Synonyms

  • revelation

Antonyms

  • concealment
  • suppression
  • hiding

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'disclose' (verb) and 'disclosure' (noun).
  • Omitting the necessary object after 'disclosure'.
  • Using it in informal settings where simpler language is preferred.