Inform Meaning

UK /ɪnˈfɔːm/
US /ɪnˈfɔːrm/
Word Definition
inform meaning

Inform Definition & Usage

verb

To give someone information about something; to notify or update.

Examples

  • "I need to inform you about the changes to the schedule."
  • "Can you inform the team about the meeting tomorrow?"
  • "Please inform me once you've finished the task."
  • "She informed him of the urgent request from the client."
  • "It’s important to inform all parties involved as soon as possible."
verb

To make someone aware of something by teaching or explaining.

Examples

  • "He took the time to inform her about the historical significance of the painting."
  • "The documentary aims to inform the public about climate change."
  • "She tried to inform him of the cultural differences that might affect his visit."
  • "The seminar will inform participants about the latest trends in AI."
  • "The article informs readers of the best ways to reduce waste."

Cultural Context

The word 'inform' comes from the Latin 'informare,' meaning to shape, form, or teach. Over time, it evolved to specifically refer to imparting knowledge or giving notice about facts or events.

The Ripple of Information

Story

The Ripple of Information

In a bustling city, a young journalist named Claire sat at her desk at a local news outlet, preparing for her next big story. She was a few steps away from uncovering a potential scandal involving a well-known politician, but there was one obstacle: she needed to inform her editor about her findings without compromising her source. Claire picked up the phone and dialed the editor’s number. 'John, I have something important to inform you about,' she said, her voice steady despite the nerves bubbling inside. She could hear the rush of background noise on the other end of the line as John answered, 'Go ahead.' As she began to relay the details, Claire carefully chose her words. She wasn’t just informing him of the facts—she was also teaching him the significance of the connections she had uncovered. 'This is bigger than we thought. If we publish this, it could change the political landscape in our city,' she explained. Meanwhile, John sat back in his office, taking in the weight of the information. Claire had informed him in a way that both updated him on the situation and educated him about the potential impact. He knew that what she was revealing wasn’t just news—it was the beginning of something that would inform the public and alter their view on the politicians they trusted. Later that afternoon, as Claire met with her colleagues, she had another task: she had to inform the rest of the team about the next steps for covering the developing story. She sent a quick email, making sure everyone was up to speed. 'Team, I’ve informed the editor. We need to meet to discuss the final draft before publication.' The ripples of information spread far and wide, from Claire to John, from John to the newsroom, and ultimately, from the newsroom to the public. Each person involved not only received the news but was also informed in a way that shaped their understanding of the situation. At the end of the day, Claire reflected on how much information can alter perceptions. The world she lived in was one where information, when conveyed properly, could change lives, bring justice, or even spark revolutions. She smiled, knowing she was part of that cycle. But as she went to bed, she also understood that to inform was not just about sending out facts—it was about shaping a narrative and educating those who needed to know the truth.

The Ripple of Information