inform
B1Neutral formal
Definition
Meaning
To give someone facts or information; to tell.
To imbue or permeate with a quality; to be the underlying principle or formative influence.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
In its core sense, 'inform' focuses on the transmission of specific, often factual knowledge. It can be neutral but often carries a formal or official tone compared to 'tell'. The extended meaning ('to inform' as in 'to influence deeply') is less common but significant in academic/formal contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. The verb 'inform' is used identically in core meaning. Minor differences may appear in typical prepositions used with phrasal verbs (e.g., 'inform on' vs. 'inform against' for reporting to authorities).
Connotations
Slightly more formal in both varieties than 'tell'. In British English, 'inform' might be perceived as slightly more typical in official correspondence.
Frequency
High frequency in both varieties. Slightly more common in written, especially formal, contexts than in casual speech.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
inform somebody (of/about something)inform somebody that...inform something (formal: 'ethics inform his work')Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “inform on/against someone”
- “a well-informed decision”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in formal communications: 'We will inform you of our decision in due course.'
Academic
Used in the extended sense: 'This theory informs our understanding of the phenomenon.'
Everyday
Formal contexts like official letters or announcements: 'We regret to inform you...'
Technical
Used in computing/data contexts: 'The model is informed by the latest data.'
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Please inform the council of any changes.
- The witness decided to inform on his associates.
- The brochure should inform potential customers.
American English
- We'll inform you when the package ships.
- He informed against his former partners to the FBI.
- These studies will inform future policy.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The teacher will inform us about the test.
- I need to inform my mum I'll be late.
- The company will inform all customers of the new policy.
- Could you inform me when he arrives?
- The data collected will directly inform our marketing strategy.
- He was reluctant to inform on his colleagues.
- A deep understanding of history must inform any contemporary political analysis.
- She was officially informed of her rights before the interview.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine putting information INto someone's FORMe (mind). You IN-FORM them.
Conceptual Metaphor
KNOWLEDGE IS A LIQUID (to inform = to pour knowledge into a container/mind).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Not a direct equivalent of 'информировать' in casual speech; 'tell' or 'let know' is often more natural. Avoid overusing 'inform' where a simpler verb fits.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect preposition: 'inform to someone' (correct: 'inform someone' or 'inform someone of/about').
- Using 'inform' for casual, everyday telling: 'He informed me the film was good.' (Overly formal; 'told' is better).
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'inform' correctly?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Inform' is formal and focuses on giving factual knowledge. 'Tell' is general and neutral. 'Notify' is formal/official, often about something important or requiring action.
In its core meaning, yes. The structure is 'inform someone (of/about something)' or 'inform someone that...'. The extended meaning ('ethics inform his work') uses a different object.
Both are correct. 'Inform of' is often used for a specific fact or item ('informed of the decision'). 'Inform about' can be used for a broader topic ('informed about the project').
Yes, very commonly, especially in formal writing (e.g., 'Passengers were informed of the delay', 'You will be kept informed').