What is reveal? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "reveal" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a specific meaning, but it can be tricky to use correctly.

1. Core Meaning: To Make Something Known

At its heart, "reveal" means to make something previously hidden, secret, or unknown known. It's about uncovering something that was concealed.

2. Common Ways to Use "Reveal"

Here's a breakdown of how you can use "reveal" in different contexts, with examples:

• Revealing Information: This is the most common use.

  • "The detective began to reveal clues about the suspect's involvement." (He started showing, uncovering, details.)
  • "The documentary will reveal the hidden history of the town." (It will disclose secrets.)
  • "The scientist’s research finally revealed the cause of the disease." (The study uncovered the reason.)

• Revealing a Person's Emotions/Feelings:

  • "Her smile revealed her happiness." (Her smile showed her feeling.)
  • "His nervousness revealed that he was worried about the interview." (His nervousness showed his anxiety.)

• Revealing a Physical Object: (Often with “to”)

  • "The rain revealed the muddy footprints in the garden." (The rain uncovered the footprints.)
  • "The surgeon carefully revealed the damaged tissue." (He exposed the damage.)

• Revealing a Truth/Secret:

  • "The letter revealed a long-hidden family secret." (It exposed a secret that was previously unknown.)
  • “The data revealed a shocking trend in consumer spending.” (The data uncovered a surprising pattern.)

• Figurative Usage (often with "a" or "the"): This is where "reveal" can be a little more poetic or evocative.

  • "The sunset revealed a breathtaking panorama." (The sunset uncovered a beautiful view).
  • "The music revealed a profound sadness beneath the surface." (The music showed an underlying sadness).

3. Key Differences & Synonyms

• Reveal vs. Show: "Reveal" implies uncovering something that was hidden. "Show" is more general—it can simply mean to present something.

  • "He showed me the picture." (He simply presented it.)
  • "The evidence revealed the truth." (The evidence uncovered the truth that was hidden.)

• Synonyms: Depending on the context, you could use words like:

  • Disclose
  • Uncover
  • Expose
  • Bring to light
  • Make known
  • Unearth

4. Grammar Notes:

• "Reveal to": Often used with "to" – “He revealed the secret to me.”
• Passive Voice: "The truth was revealed by the police." (The truth was uncovered by the police.)

5. Examples in Sentences:

• “The archaeologist painstakingly revealed ancient artifacts from the tomb.”
• “The magician's trick revealed a hidden compartment.”
• “Her words revealed a deep affection for her grandmother.”
• “The investigation will reveal whether the company engaged in fraudulent practices.”

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• What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., creative writing, academic essay, business report)
• Can you give me a sentence or a situation where you're trying to use the word "reveal"? (This will help me show you exactly how to best incorporate it.)