Inform on Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To secretly give information about someone, usually to the police or authorities, especially when they have done something wrong or illegal.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly formal or used in legal/criminal contexts; often carries a negative sense of betraying someone's trust. Collocates with 'police,' 'authorities' (e.g., 'He informed on his partner'). Not to be confused with 'inform about' (general information) or 'report' (less secretive, less negative).
Example Sentences
He refused to inform on his friends.
basic
The police asked her to inform on the gang.
basic
He was afraid someone would inform on him.
basic
If you inform on the others, the police might go easier on you.
natural
Nobody likes people who inform on their friends just to save themselves.
natural
She wouldn't inform on him—no matter what they threatened her with.
natural