When was the last time you shared a big piece of news?
Today, Lindsay and Michelle are going beyond the basic verb “to tell” and sharing four more expressive ways to talk about sharing information.
Sharing big news
Lindsay asked Michelle when was the last time she had to share a big piece of news.
Michelle mentions she remembers when she was moving away from New York.
Her friends cried when they learned this life change.
Lindsay had recent big news as well.
She just had her baby and she revealed it in a past episode which we’ll mention at the end of this blog.
Today Lindsay and Michelle talk about different ways you can share news using the verb “to tell.”
Vocabulary to share news
The verb ‘to tell’ is a very simple and neutral vocabulary but Lindsay and Michelle share different expressions or words that can be more advanced and will make you more like a native English speaker.
Having more options helps you express yourself more naturally and connect more deeply in conversation.
#1: Reveal
To reveal something means to bring it out into the open.
The information was unknown before, and now it is being made clear.
It works for anything that was hidden or kept secret.
Examples:
- She revealed her new fashion line at the show last night. It was amazing.
- He revealed some classified information, and now he’s in big trouble.
You will also hear this word in two very common phrases.
Such “the big reveal” which refers to a moment when something everyone has been waiting for is finally announced.
#2: Share
This is a little more neutral, similar to “tell,” but it carries a warmer feeling.
It suggests you are inviting someone to join in on knowing something with you.
It works in casual conversation, in the classroom, and even in professional settings.
Examples:
- I have to share what Gabriel said this morning. It was so adorable!
- Can you share a story from your childhood with the class?
You have probably also heard the phrase “sharing is caring,” which is often said to children but adults borrow it all the time.
It is a cute rhyme that captures the idea that generosity and kindness go hand in hand.
#3: Disclose
“Disclose” is more formal.
It usually involves private information that was not meant for everyone to know.
You will often hear it in professional, legal, or medical contexts.
Examples:
- Don’t disclose your social security number to anyone.
- Please fill out this form. We will not disclose any of this information. It is just for our office records.
#4: Divulge
This is close to “disclose” but feels a bit more dramatic.
While “disclose” leans formal and is often used in writing, “divulge” has an almost theatrical quality to it.
It sounds like you are spilling something you probably should not.
Examples:
- He divulged the plan of his proposal to his cousin, but then worried he couldn’t be trusted.
- Don’t divulge any of the details until I get there. I don’t want to miss any gossip!
Roleplay
Here is a quick roleplay between Lindsay and Michelle showing all four words in action.
In this scenario, they are friends catching up over lunch.
Lindsay: So… any news?
Michelle: Well, I can reveal some information.
Lindsay: What is it?? Spill it!
Michelle: Susie is buying a villa in Spain.
Lindsay: Wow!
Michelle: I feel bad divulging this secret, but I don’t think she’d mind.
Lindsay: I won’t say anything. You’re just sharing some fun news. Don’t feel bad.
Michelle: Okay. Oh, be careful with your credit card there. Everyone can see it. You don’t want to disclose your private information, especially these days.
Lindsay: You’re right, thanks!
Takeaway
Choosing the right word can make your English sound more natural and precise.
While “tell” works in many situations, words like “reveal,” “share,” “disclose,” and “divulge” each have their own nuance and are used in different contexts.
By understanding these subtle differences, you’ll be able to communicate more confidently and sound more like a native speaker in both professional and everyday conversations.
Check out AEE 2626: Are You Sitting Down? Plus Lindsay’s Big News if you missed Lindsay’s exciting announcement.
Have you ever accidentally divulged a secret? Or are you someone who’s great at keeping them?
Let us know in the comments!
