Informant vs Insider
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Informant | Insider | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A person who gives information, especially to the police. | A person who has special knowledge or information about something. |
| CEFR level | - | C1 |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Usage notes | Commonly used in legal and police contexts. Be careful using it informally, as it can imply secrecy or betrayal. | Used in contexts like business or politics. Appropriate in formal discussions about leaks or confidences. Avoid in informal settings where slang is preferred. |
Frequently asked questions: Informant vs Insider
What's the difference between "Informant" and "Insider"?
"Informant" means: A person who gives information, especially to the police. "Insider" means: A person who has special knowledge or information about something.
When should I use "Informant" and "Insider"?
They can all be used in everyday English.