cannot reveal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot reveal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something cannot be disclosed or made known, often due to confidentiality or privacy reasons. Example: "Due to company policy, I cannot reveal any details about the ongoing project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I cannot reveal the circumstances.

The Guardian

The work has a life it cannot reveal entirely.

The New York Times - Arts

"I cannot reveal anything on that," he said.

The New York Times

Although senators on the Intelligence Committee cannot reveal classified information, they have ways of signalling concern.

The New Yorker

But I cannot reveal more until 6pm, one hour before the start of Channel 4 News.

The Guardian

I cannot reveal the people we are talking to until they have been appointed".

The Guardian

Maybe it's all in Mr. Penenberg's notes, and he simply cannot reveal his sources.

The New York Times

Unfortunately we cannot reveal what country he is in at this time.

The Guardian

I cannot reveal the actual questions, because the state asked me not to.

The New York Times

Writer says this transcript came into his possession through sources he cannot reveal.

The New Yorker

Unlike expatriate deserters, AWOLS cannot reveal who they are without facing instant arrest.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot reveal", be clear about the reason for non-disclosure to maintain transparency and avoid suspicion. If appropriate, offer a general explanation without divulging specific details.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "cannot reveal" without providing any context or reason. This can make you appear evasive or untrustworthy. Instead, offer a brief explanation or alternative phrasing to soften the impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot reveal" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing an inability or unwillingness to disclose information. Ludwig AI identifies this phrase as correct and usable in written English, often employed when confidentiality or privacy concerns exist.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot reveal" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that serves to indicate an inability or unwillingness to disclose information. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is often linked to confidentiality and privacy considerations. It appears most frequently in News & Media and scientific contexts, with a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, it is important to provide context or explanation to avoid appearing evasive. Alternative phrases like "unable to disclose" or "not permitted to share" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. As such, understanding its usage and potential substitutes helps improve clarity and professionalism in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot disclose

A shorter version of the original phrase with the same meaning.

unable to disclose

Replaces "cannot" with "unable", emphasizing the lack of ability to reveal.

not permitted to share

Focuses on the lack of permission to share the information.

bound to secrecy

Highlights the obligation to keep something secret.

prohibited from disclosing

Emphasizes a formal prohibition against revealing information.

must keep confidential

Emphasizes the obligation to maintain confidentiality.

restricted from sharing

Focuses on the restriction placed on sharing information.

required to withhold

Highlights a requirement to keep information back.

prevented from disclosing

Highlights the prevention of the disclosure.

not at liberty to divulge

A more formal way of saying one is not allowed to share information.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot reveal" in a sentence?

You can use "cannot reveal" to indicate that you are unable to disclose certain information, often due to confidentiality or other restrictions. For example, "I "cannot reveal" the details of the contract at this time."

What are some alternatives to "cannot reveal"?

Alternatives to "cannot reveal" include "unable to disclose", "not permitted to share", or "bound to secrecy", depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "cannot reveal" or "unable to reveal"?

"Unable to reveal" and "cannot reveal" are quite similar in formality. However, "unable to reveal" might be perceived as slightly more formal because "unable" is generally considered a more formal word than "cannot".

When is it appropriate to use "cannot reveal"?

It's appropriate to use "cannot reveal" when you are under an obligation or restriction that prevents you from sharing information. This might be due to legal agreements, company policy, or ethical considerations.