“Confide” is a verb that means to tell someone about a secret or private matter while trusting them not to repeat it. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of each:
1. Reveal
- Analysis: “Reveal” means to make known or disclose something that was previously hidden or secret. For example, “She decided to reveal her true feelings to her best friend.” While “confide” implies a sense of trust and a more personal, often emotional sharing, “reveal” is a more general term for making information known. You can reveal facts, plans, or any kind of hidden content, not necessarily in a context of a close, trusting relationship like when you confide in someone.
2. Disclose
- Analysis: “Disclose” also means to make something known, especially information that was meant to be kept private. For example, “The witness was reluctant to disclose the details of the incident.” It is similar to “reveal” in the sense of uncovering or making public something that was concealed. However, “disclose” is often used in more formal or legal contexts, such as in a court setting or when dealing with official information.
3. Divulge
- Analysis: “Divulge” means to make a secret known, often in an improper or unauthorized way. For example, “He promised not to divulge the company's trade secrets.” It has a slightly negative connotation, as if the act of sharing the information might be a violation of a trust or a rule. In contrast to “confide,” which is about a positive act of sharing in a trusting relationship, “divulge” can imply a breach of confidence.
4. Impart
- Analysis: “Impart” means to give or convey information, knowledge, or a feeling. For example, “The teacher tried to impart wisdom to her students.” It is a more general term for sharing something, and it doesn't necessarily have to be a secret. When it comes to sharing secrets, “impart” can be used in a way similar to “confide,” but it's a broader verb that can cover sharing of all kinds of intangible things like ideas, values, and experiences.
5. Share (secrets)
- Analysis: “Share” is a very common verb that means to have, use, or do something jointly with others. When we say “share (secrets),” it means to tell someone else about a secret. For example, “She shared her deepest secrets with her sister.” It's a more casual and versatile term than “confide.” “Share” can be used in a wide range of contexts, from sharing objects to sharing ideas and feelings, and when it comes to secrets, it implies a willingness to let someone else in on something private.