While both "reveal" and "disclose" mean to make something known, there are subtle differences in their usage. "Reveal" often implies uncovering something that was hidden or secret, suggesting a more dramatic or surprising element. Think of it as pulling back a curtain to show something hidden. "Disclose," on the other hand, is a more formal and neutral term, often used in official contexts, simply meaning to make something known that was previously private or unknown.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

• Reveal:
  • "The magician revealed his secret trick." (The magician made his secret trick known, which was unexpected.)
  • "The detective's investigation revealed a shocking truth." (The detective's work uncovered a surprising fact.)
• Disclose:
  • "The company is required to disclose its financial information." (The company is obligated to make its financial information known.)
  • "The witness agreed to disclose the identity of the criminal." (The witness decided to make the criminal's identity known.)

Notice how "reveal" often carries a sense of surprise or drama, while "disclose" is more matter-of-fact. Consider the context and the tone you want to convey when choosing between the two words.

Here is another example with translations in English:

• Reveal (translation): The painting, which had been hidden for decades, was finally revealed to the public; (The public could finally see the painting after it had been hidden for many years)
• Disclose (translation): The government was forced to disclose its involvement in the scandal. (The government had to admit that it was involved in the scandal.)

Happy learning!