Definition of Inform
Quick Meaning of Inform
To tell someone something; to give someone news or information.
Detailed Definition of Inform
To give someone information; to tell someone something they did not know before.
How to Pronounce Inform
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on second syllable: in-FORM. The 'or' sounds like 'or' in 'door', not 'ar' in 'car'.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced IN-form (stress on first syllable); should be in-FORM.
Origin and Etymology of Inform
From Latin 'informare' (to shape, form, instruct), from 'in-' + 'formare'. Originally meant to shape ideas in the mind.
How to Use Inform in a Sentence
Each example shows “inform” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The doctor will inform you of the test results.”
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“I need to inform my boss about the project delay.”
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“The school informed parents in writing about the new safety protocols.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Inform
Common Synonyms for Inform
Smart Synonyms for Inform — When to Use Each
- notify
- for formal official announcement
- advise
- for giving information with judgment
- tell
- for simple sharing of facts
Antonyms of Inform
Common Collocations with Inform
These phrases pair with “inform” in everyday English:
- inform someone of
- inform someone that
- keep informed
- inform authorities
- well-informed
Common Mistakes When Using Inform
Even fluent speakers slip up with “inform”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I will inform you of the decision on tomorrow.
- ✓ Correct: I will inform you of the decision tomorrow.
- Why: Use 'tomorrow' alone, not 'on tomorrow'. Preposition 'on' is not needed here.
- ✗ Wrong: She informed him about the meeting on yesterday.
- ✓ Correct: She informed him about the meeting yesterday.
- Why: Use time adverb 'yesterday' without preposition 'on'.
- ✗ Wrong: They inform us that the flight is delayed.
- ✓ Correct: They informed us that the flight was delayed.
- Why: Use past tense 'informed' and 'was' for reporting information from a specific time.
Other Forms of Inform
- Noun: information
- Verb: inform
- Adjective: informed
Frequently Asked Questions About Inform
What is the meaning of "Inform"?
To tell someone something; to give someone news or information.
How do you pronounce "Inform"?
The IPA is /ɪnˈfɔːrm/. Stress on second syllable: in-FORM. The 'or' sounds like 'or' in 'door', not 'ar' in 'car'.
What part of speech is "Inform"?
"Inform" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Inform"?
Common synonyms include tell, notify, advise.
How do you use "Inform" in a sentence?
For example: "The doctor will inform you of the test results."