inform them

USAGE SUMMARY

"inform them" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to communicate to an audience that something should be done or explained to someone else. For example, "I will need to inform them of the change in the cancellation policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

All participants will receive an information sheet, which will inform them about the study.

BMJ Open

"You never inform them".

The New Yorker

Ghosts and dreams inform them.

The Guardian - Books

It will inform them and empower them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Police then had to inform them of the second blast.

The Guardian

But you do want to encourage, enthuse and inform them".

The Guardian

Someone rushed in to inform them their home was burning.

The New York Times

You need simply to inform them on the day.

The Guardian

He feels it is his civic duty to inform them.

The New York Times

But I do feel an obligation to inform them.

The New York Times - Sports

"I did not inform them because I forgot about it".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "inform them", clearly state the information being conveyed to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Inform them of the meeting time" is clearer than simply "Inform them."

Common error

While "inform them" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "let them know" or "tell them" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inform them" functions as a directive verb phrase, indicating an action to be performed: the act of conveying information to a specified group of people. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of its correctness and usability, particularly in contexts requiring clear communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

7%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "inform them" is a common and grammatically correct way to instruct someone to convey information to a group, as Ludwig AI confirms. It's versatile, appearing frequently in news, scientific writing and Wiki. While generally neutral to professional, be mindful of the context; more casual alternatives might suit informal settings. To enhance clarity, specify the content to be communicated. Remember that while phrases like "notify them" and "let them know" exist, each carries subtly different connotations, influencing the tone and formality of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notify them

Replaces "inform" with "notify", emphasizing a formal or official communication.

let them know

Provides a more casual and direct way to express the act of informing.

advise them

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

tell them

Offers a simpler, more general alternative to "inform", suitable for everyday conversation.

make them aware

Shifts the focus to ensuring the individuals have knowledge, regardless of the method.

update them

Focuses on providing new or current information, implying a previous exchange.

apprise them of

Offers a more formal alternative to "inform", indicating a detailed and thorough notification.

fill them in

Emphasizes providing complete information, often about something previously unknown.

enlighten them

Suggests a deeper level of understanding is being imparted, going beyond simple information.

clue them in

Provides an informal way to suggest informing someone about something previously secret or unknown.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "inform them"?

You can use alternatives like "notify them", "let them know", or "tell them" depending on the context.

How to use "inform them" in a sentence?

You can use "inform them" to indicate that someone should be told something. For example, "Please inform them of the changes to the schedule" or "I need to inform them about the situation".

Which is correct, "inform them" or "informs them"?

"Inform them" is used when the subject is plural or "I/you/we/they". "Informs them" is used when the subject is singular and third person (he/she/it). For example, "I will inform them" versus "He informs them".

What's the difference between "inform them" and "notify them"?

While both phrases mean to communicate information, "notify them" often implies a more formal or official communication than "inform them". You might notify someone of a legal obligation, but simply inform them of a change in plans.