Translation guide
The English verb "reveal" covers a range of meanings from physically uncovering something to disclosing secrets or information. This guide organizes the most common uses for learners and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
To make known something that was hidden, such as a fact, plan, or secret.
Common verb for revealing a secret, truth, or one's feelings. Often used when the information was deliberately kept hidden.
He finally revealed the secret.
She revealed her true feelings.
To expose or reveal something scandalous, often with a negative connotation. Used for uncovering wrongdoing or secrets.
The journalist revealed the corruption.
To announce or make public officially. Used for formal disclosures by organizations or authorities.
The company revealed the new product.
To leak or let slip information, often unintentionally. Implies a breach of confidentiality.
He accidentally revealed the secret.
To confide or open up about something personal. Used for revealing one's inner thoughts or troubles.
She revealed her worries.
To uncover or display something physically concealed.
To reveal or show something that was hidden, often used for physical appearance or emergence.
The moon revealed itself from behind the clouds.
To show or let someone see something. A general verb for revealing by display.
To expose or reveal physically, often used in technical or photographic contexts.
Revealing the film to light develops the image.
To bring to light something that was unknown, often through investigation or analysis.
To make clear or reveal a fact. A versatile phrase used in both casual and formal contexts.
The investigation revealed the truth.
To become clear or be revealed (intransitive). Often used when a fact comes to light.
The cause was revealed.
To be exposed or revealed (often negative). Used for weaknesses or flaws becoming apparent.
The flaws in the plan were revealed.
To make known through divine or mystical means.
To reveal through divine inspiration. Used in religious contexts.
God revealed the truth.
明かす is neutral and can be used for personal secrets or truths. 暴露する implies exposing something scandalous or hidden, often with a sense of accusation or revelation of wrongdoing.
English 'reveal' is often used in contexts like 'reveal a new product' or 'reveal a surprise'. In Japanese, 公表する or 発表する (announce) may be more natural than direct translations like 明かす. Avoid using 暴露する for positive or neutral announcements.
The report revealed serious problems.
She revealed her identity.
He revealed the certificate to me.