informer - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
informer Word Meanings
- a person who provides information, especially to authorities.
- someone giving information about someone else's wrongdoing.
- a person who informs on others, often for personal gain.
informer Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
informer Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈfɔː.mə/
US
/ɪnˈfɔrmər/
informer Word Etymology
Root decomposition: in- (in, into) + former (to form, shape). Historical origin: Latin informare → Old French enfermer → English informer. Memory image: Imagine a secretive figure whispering important information into the ear of a detective, shaping the course of justice.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
An informer is a person who provides information, especially to authorities, about someone’s wrongdoing. In formal contexts, an informer may be a neutral witness who helps an investigation by supplying facts. In everyday speech, informer often carries a negative or suspicious tone, suggesting betrayal or disloyalty, and many speakers prefer terms like informant or whistleblower depending on the situation. Learners should note that 'to inform on someone' means to report their wrongdoing, while 'inform' is a verb unrelated to a person. The word also appears in legal phrases such as 'police informer' or 'undercover informer', so choosing the right register is important for accuracy and tone.
Usage Reminders
- - Informer often has a negative connotation in everyday English, unlike informant which is more neutral.
- - Use 'to inform on someone' to mean report their wrongdoing; do not say 'to informer on' for grammar reasons.
- - For neutral contexts or fieldwork, prefer 'informant' rather than 'informer'.
- - Common collocations include 'police informer' and 'to inform on someone'.
- - Remember that 'inform' is a verb and unrelated to a person.
Common Misconceptions
- Informers and informants are always interchangeable.
- An informer must always be a snitch who betrays friends.
- You say 'to informer on' someone in standard English.
- An informer only relates to crime; it cannot be used in other contexts.
- Informers always get paid for providing information.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker how informers are viewed differently across registers, from neutral witness to pejorative snitch, and how this affects tone and choice of synonyms.
Learning Tips
- Know the subtle difference between informer and informant.
- Remember to use 'to inform on someone' for reporting wrongdoing.
- Avoid assuming all informers are paid or untrustworthy.
- Practice neutral vs negative contexts with different collocations.
- Learn common phrases like 'police informer' and 'informant network'.
- Be mindful of tone when presenting someone as an informer.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'informer'?
A.Someone who informs others about their plans.
B.A person who provides information, especially to the police.
C.A teacher who informs students about school rules.
D.A person who modifies the truth for others.
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'informer' correctly?
A.The informer reported the crime to the authorities.
B.She is an informer at her local bakery.
C.The teacher acted as an informer for the students' attendance.
D.He became an informer in the game of telephone.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'informer'?
A.Whistleblower
B.Manufacturer
C.Customer
D.Artist
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'informer'?
A.Advisor
B.Communicator
C.Secretive person
D.Listener
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context involving someone who might provide information to law enforcement?
A.Students discuss their homework with one another.
B.A journalist reports on community events.
C.A neighbor spotted something suspicious and reported it anonymously.
D.A family goes out for dinner on the weekend.
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