What Does “Reveal sth” Mean?
“Reveal sth” means to make something known or visible that was previously hidden or secret.
Introduction
The phrase “reveal sth” is a common phrasal verb in English used to describe the action of uncovering or showing information, feelings, or objects that were not known before. The word “sth” is a short form for “something,” so “reveal sth” means to reveal something. This phrase is useful in everyday conversations, writing, and formal contexts when discussing discoveries, secrets, or facts. Understanding the “reveal sth meaning” helps learners express how hidden details become clear or public. It is a versatile phrase that fits well in various situations, from casual talks about personal feelings to news reports revealing important information.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: reveal something
- Type: transitive
- Level: B1 (Intermediate)
- Short meaning: to make something known or visible
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Reveal” is a transitive verb, which means it always needs an object (something that is revealed). It is not separable because “reveal” is a single verb, not a two-word phrasal verb like “turn off.” The pattern follows:
- Subject + reveal + something
- Example: The report revealed the truth.
You cannot place any word between “reveal” and its object.
How to Use “Reveal sth”?
You use “reveal sth” when you want to say that someone or something shows information or facts that were hidden or unknown. It is often used in news, stories, personal conversations, and reports. It can refer to physical things, like a hidden object, or abstract things like feelings, secrets, or facts.
Examples
Here are some natural examples showing how to use “reveal sth in a sentence”:
- The investigation revealed new evidence in the case.
- Her smile revealed her happiness after the good news.
- The artist revealed the painting at the exhibition.
- The study revealed that many people prefer online shopping.
- He finally revealed his true feelings to her.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes learners confuse “reveal” with other verbs or make mistakes with the sentence structure. Here are common errors:
- Incorrect: She revealed to the secret.
- Correct: She revealed the secret.
- Incorrect: The report revealed about the problem.
- Correct: The report revealed the problem.
Remember, “reveal” does not need prepositions like “to” or “about” after it.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar phrasal verbs and verbs include “disclose,” “uncover,” and “show.” While all mean to make something known, “reveal” often implies something hidden is uncovered clearly and sometimes unexpectedly.
- Disclose: Often used in formal or legal contexts (e.g., disclose information).
- Uncover: Focuses on finding something hidden or secret.
- Show: More general and less about secrets.
For example, “reveal a secret” emphasizes making hidden information public, while “show a secret” is less common.
Common Collocations
We often use “reveal” with certain objects. Here are common collocations with their meanings:
- Reveal the truth – make the real facts known
- Reveal secrets – tell hidden or private information
- Reveal information – provide facts or details
- Reveal feelings – show emotions that were hidden
- Reveal results – announce outcomes or findings
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a short conversation using “reveal sth”:
Anna: Did you hear about the new project?
Mark: No, what is it?
Anna: The manager revealed the details in the meeting this morning.
Mark: Great! I can’t wait to learn more.
Practice
Try filling in the blanks with the correct form of “reveal” and an object:
- The investigation _______ important facts about the accident.
- Her expression _______ that she was surprised.
- The report _______ no new evidence.
- Can you _______ the secret to me?
FAQs
- Q: Is “reveal” a phrasal verb?
A: “Reveal” is a verb but not a phrasal verb with a particle. “Reveal sth” means revealing something. - Q: Can I use “reveal” without an object?
A: No, “reveal” is transitive and needs an object (something revealed). - Q: What is the difference between “reveal” and “disclose”?
A: “Reveal” is more general; “disclose” is often formal or legal. - Q: Can “reveal” be used for feelings?
A: Yes, you can reveal feelings, emotions, or thoughts. - Q: Is “reveal” separable?
A: No, “reveal” is not separable. The object always follows the verb directly.
