Disclosure

Definition

Disclosure refers to the act of making information known or revealing something that was previously secret or unknown. It is often used in legal, business, and personal contexts to describe the sharing of important or sensitive information.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈkloʊʒər/
• Respelling: diss-KLOH-zher

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈkləʊʒə/
• Respelling: diss-KLOH-zhuh

The pronunciation of "disclosure" varies slightly between American and British English, particularly in the vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "disclosure" originates from the Old French word "disclos," meaning "open" or "exposed." It is derived from the Latin word "discludere," which means "to open" or "uncover." The term entered the English language in the 16th century.

Derivatives

• Disclose (verb)
• Disclosing (adjective)
• Undisclosed (adjective)
• Self-disclosure (noun)
• Pre-disclosure (noun)

Synonyms

• Revelation
• Announcement
• Exposure

Antonyms

• Concealment
• Secrecy
• Withholding

Usage

The term "disclosure" is commonly used in legal, financial, and personal settings to describe the act of revealing information. In legal contexts, it is often associated with the obligation to reveal certain information in a court case or contract. In personal relationships, it can refer to the sharing of private thoughts or feelings. In business, disclosures are often mandated by law or regulation, particularly in the context of financial reporting.

Related Terms

• Reveal: To make something previously unknown or hidden visible or known.
• Divulge: To disclose or reveal information that was meant to be kept secret.
• Confession: The act of admitting or disclosing something, especially personal or secret information.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of making something known or public: Refers to the general process of revealing information.
  • Example: "The company issued a full disclosure of its financial dealings."
• Information that is revealed or made public: Refers to the actual content or information that has been shared.
  • Example: "The legal team reviewed the disclosure before proceeding with the case."
• Mandatory revelation of information, especially in legal or financial contexts: Describes information that must be shared due to legal or regulatory requirements.
  • Example: "Full disclosure of all assets is required in the divorce proceedings."