formal 10K+

Whistleblower

UK //ˈwɪs.əlˌbloʊ.ər// US //ˈwɪs.əlˌbloʊ.ɚ// Pronunciation

Definition

A person who exposes illegal or unethical activities within an organization.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A person who reports wrongdoing or illegal activity in an organization.

Examples

• The whistleblower revealed shocking information about the company's misconduct.
• Healthcare whistleblowers play a crucial role in uncovering fraud and abuse.
• After becoming a whistleblower, she faced severe retaliation from her employer.
• The government protects whistleblowers from discrimination and harassment.
• Many whistleblowers have come forward to expose corruption in politics.

Usage notes

Typically used in legal or corporate contexts. May not be appropriate in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

whistleblower + subject

Memory hint

Think of someone 'whistling' the truth out loud to reveal secrets.

Collocations

• legal protection for whistleblowers
• whistleblower complaints
• famous whistleblower cases

Synonyms

• informant
• reporter
• tipster
• snitch
• leaker

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'informant' which implies a different legal context.
• Misused in informal contexts where it sounds out of place.