inform someone about something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inform someone about something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey information or notify someone regarding a specific topic or issue. Example: "I need to inform you about the changes in the meeting schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

There are other ways to inform someone of something without directly hurting his or her feelings.

WikiHow

(Arpaio claims that he did inform someone at Mesa police headquarters about the raid).

The New Yorker

Read up on the latest news and keep yourself informed on important topics, so you will always have something relevant to talk about or inform someone new.

WikiHow

First, inform someone where you are going.

WikiHow

An infant of 12 months will inform others about something by pointing.

The New York Times

Cela means to 'ask' or 'negotiate', xoxa means to 'talk' or 'tell someone' about something, tshela means to 'tell' or 'narrate' or 'give an account' of something, and azisa means to 'inform' but was also used in relation to convincing someone of something.

AIDS and Behavior

How can the public make informed decisions about something that is kept secret?

TechCrunch

Do you tease someone else about something you dislike about yourself?

WikiHow

Inform someone.

WikiHow

Inform someone who will support you.

WikiHow

In other words, someone says that they will do/give/be X,Y,Z for you, so that you get/are involved in/are kept informed about, etc. something.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience when choosing this phrase; in highly formal settings, "apprise" might be more appropriate, while in casual settings, "tell" or "let know" may suffice.

Common error

Avoid using "inform" in casual conversations; simpler alternatives like "tell" or "let know" are often more natural and less formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inform someone about something" functions as a transitive verb phrase. It indicates the action of conveying knowledge or details regarding a particular subject to another person. Ludwig provides examples showcasing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "inform someone about something" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of conveying information on a particular topic. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While relatively uncommon, the phrase appears across various contexts, including Wiki articles, news reports, and scientific publications. When choosing this phrase, consider the level of formality required; alternatives like "tell someone about something" or "let someone know about something" may be more suitable for casual settings. Ensure clarity and accuracy when using "inform someone about something" to effectively communicate relevant details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notify someone of something

Replaces "inform" with "notify" focusing on the act of giving official notice.

advise someone regarding something

Substitutes "inform" with "advise", suggesting guidance or counsel is being provided.

tell someone about something

Uses the more common and direct verb "tell" instead of "inform".

apprise someone of something

Replaces "inform" with the more formal "apprise", indicating a formal communication.

make someone aware of something

Focuses on creating awareness rather than simply conveying information.

update someone on something

Implies providing the latest information or developments on a particular topic.

keep someone informed about something

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of providing information.

let someone know about something

Offers a more casual way of saying "inform", suitable for informal settings.

brief someone on something

Indicates giving a concise summary or overview of a topic.

fill someone in on something

Suggests providing missing or background information.

FAQs

What's a simpler way to say "inform someone about something"?

You can use phrases like "tell someone about something" or "let someone know about something" for a less formal tone.

When is it appropriate to use "inform someone about something"?

This phrase is suitable when you need to formally or officially convey information, especially when accuracy and clarity are important. In casual contexts, simpler alternatives might be preferred.

How does "inform someone about something" differ from "notify someone of something"?

"Notify someone of something" often implies a more official or urgent communication, whereas "inform someone about something" is a more general way of conveying information.

What are some synonyms for "inform" in the phrase "inform someone about something"?

Synonyms include "advise", "apprise", "update", and "brief", each carrying slightly different connotations.