C1verb2K

Notify

UK /["/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪ/","/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪz/","/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪd/","/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪ/","/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪz/","/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪd/","/ˈnəʊtɪfaɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to formally or officially tell somebody about something

In simple words: to tell someone about something

Examples

  • Competition winners will be notified by post.
  • You must notify us in writing if you wish to cancel your subscription.
  • The police must be notified of the date of the demonstration.
  • The date of the demonstration must be notified to the police.
  • Members have been notified that there will be a small increase in the fee.
  • Changes must be notified to the chairman.
  • If you see anything suspicious you should notify the police immediately.
  • The family had been notified of the department's decision.

Usage notes

Use 'notify' in situations where you are formally informing someone, like in business or official contexts. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

notify + object + of/about + object

Memory hint

Think of 'notify' like 'note' — you are sending a note to someone.

Collocations

  • forthwith
  • immediately
  • promptly
  • be obliged to
  • be required to
  • must
  • of
  • to

Synonyms

  • inform
  • alert
  • advise
  • apprise
  • update

Antonyms

  • ignore
  • neglect
  • overlook

Common mistakes

  • Using 'notify' without an object (e.g., saying 'I will notify' instead of 'I will notify you').
  • Confusing 'notify' with 'inform' — while similar, 'notify' implies a more formal notification.
  • Mixing up prepositions (e.g., saying 'notify with' instead of 'notify about')