bring to light

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bring to light" is correct and is used in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has been revealed or discovered, often after a period of time. Example: Recent archaeological discoveries have brought to light a previously unknown species of ancient mammal.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

privacy measurement community has been able to bring to light.

University of California, Berkeley

The results bring to light the need to develop common working procedures.

Land Use Policy

Hence, decomposing the internal or external energy throughputs may bring to light their contrasting sociometabolic profiles.

Ecological Economics

As a result, they bring to light some deeply felt emotions.

The New York Times

"She did bring to light the environmental and health concerns with flame retardants," Blood said.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Private life and stupid things that you bring to light, I don't like it.

Independent

That would bring to light how silly it is to always try to get the strip.

The New York Times - Sports

How might a visual activity bring to light the power of words, the power of participation?

Yale University

We owe it to current and future generations to bring to light and eliminate bootlegging.

Columbia University

Every few years, ask yourself, what new information did I bring to light?

University of California, Berkeley

Both of these facets bring to light relationships that were never seen before.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bring to light" when you want to emphasize the act of revealing something that was previously unknown or hidden. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "bring to light" can sound overly formal in very casual conversations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "reveal" or "show" for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bring to light" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it describes something that has been revealed or discovered. It indicates the act of making something previously hidden or unknown, now apparent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

32%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bring to light" is a common and versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of revealing something previously hidden or unknown. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It is suitable for various contexts, including academic, news, and professional settings. While it can occasionally sound formal in very casual conversations, its meaning is consistently understood and readily applicable. Alternatives like "reveal" and "disclose" can be used depending on the context, as well as shed light on.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shed light on

A more idiomatic alternative with very similar meaning to the query.

reveal

This is a direct synonym, implying the uncovering of something previously hidden.

bring into the open

Emphasizes the act of making something public that was previously private or hidden.

disclose

Similar to 'reveal', but often implies making something known that was previously confidential.

uncover

Suggests finding something, often through investigation or searching.

expose

Often used when revealing something scandalous or previously concealed wrongdoings.

elucidate

To make clear; to shed light upon.

divulge

Implies revealing secret or private information.

make known

A more formal alternative suggesting a public announcement.

draw attention to

Focuses on highlighting something, rather than necessarily revealing it.

FAQs

How can I use "bring to light" in a sentence?

You can use "bring to light" to indicate the act of revealing or uncovering something previously unknown. For instance, "The investigation "brought to light" several instances of fraud".

What are some alternatives to "bring to light"?

Alternatives include "reveal", "disclose", "uncover", and "expose". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "bring to light" or "shed light on"?

Both "bring to light" and "shed light on" are valid and have similar meanings. "Bring to light" often emphasizes the revelation of something hidden, while "shed light on" focuses on clarifying or explaining something.

What does "bring to light" mean?

"Bring to light" means to reveal, disclose, or make something known that was previously hidden or unknown. It's often used in the context of investigations or discoveries.