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Informant

UK //ɪnˈfɔːmənt// US //ɪnˈfɔrmənt// Pronunciation

Definition

A person who provides privileged information, especially to law enforcement.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A person who gives information, especially to the police.

Examples

• The police relied on an informant to gather crucial evidence.
• His role as an informant put him in a dangerous situation.
• The informant provided details that led to multiple arrests.
• Being an informant requires a lot of trust and anonymity.
• If the informant is discovered, their life could be in danger.

Usage notes

Commonly used in legal and police contexts. Be careful using it informally, as it can imply secrecy or betrayal.

Grammar pattern

informant + object

Memory hint

Think of an 'informant' like an 'inform' - someone who shares information.

Collocations

• police informant
• anonymous informant
• key informant
• confidential informant
• informant agreement

Synonyms

• source
• informant
• tipster
• whistleblower
• confidant

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'informational' which refers to information-related.
• Using 'informant' to describe someone giving general information, not just in legal contexts.