refuse to reveal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refuse to reveal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone is unwilling to disclose information or details about something. Example: "Despite numerous inquiries, the company continues to refuse to reveal the specifics of their new product launch."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

The organizations refuse to reveal the sources of their money.

The New York Times - Magazine

Ms. Mastromonaco, 32, and Ms. Buford, 34, still refuse to reveal all their secrets.

The New York Times

His staff refuse to reveal how many people work in his office, let alone what they do there.

The Economist

Another 24% refuse to reveal a preference, suggesting still wider support for the opposition, and 8% are undecided.

The Economist

He says many actresses lie about their age, or simply refuse to reveal it, "because they know it restricts them".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They're so anti-nuclear the US Navy can't even show its face, since the Americans refuse to reveal whether they're carrying nukes, even on a lifeboat.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Have you refused to reveal a salary?

The New York Times

But he has refused to reveal his true identity.

The Guardian

In an interview, Tony refused to reveal his real name.

The New York Times

They refused to reveal the source of the letter.

The Guardian

Claim 18. Mann also refused to reveal his methodology.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "refuse to reveal" when you want to clearly state that someone is actively choosing not to share information. It implies a deliberate decision to keep something secret.

Common error

While "refuse to reveal" is generally acceptable, consider more casual alternatives like "won't say" or "keeping quiet" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refuse to reveal" functions as a verb phrase indicating a deliberate choice not to disclose information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. The phrase often modifies a noun or pronoun, specifying who is withholding information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "refuse to reveal" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to indicate a deliberate withholding of information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely acceptable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, its neutral tone makes it suitable for objective reporting. While alternatives like "decline to disclose" or "withhold information" exist, "refuse to reveal" offers a clear and direct way to communicate a lack of transparency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decline to disclose

A more formal and polite way of saying someone is not sharing information.

withhold information

Emphasizes the act of keeping information secret or unavailable.

refrain from divulging

A more formal way of saying someone is choosing not to share sensitive information.

remain silent about

Highlights the lack of communication regarding a specific topic.

keep under wraps

Suggests a deliberate effort to maintain secrecy.

stonewall inquiries

Implies obstruction and a refusal to cooperate with investigations.

stay tight-lipped

Highlights the unwillingness to speak about a particular matter.

clam up

An informal way to say someone suddenly stops talking or providing information.

keep mum

An informal way of saying to keep something a secret; remaining silent.

hold back details

Indicates that some information is being shared, but not the full story.

FAQs

How can I use "refuse to reveal" in a sentence?

You can use "refuse to reveal" to indicate a deliberate choice not to disclose information. For example: "The company "refuses to reveal" its financial records."

What can I say instead of "refuse to reveal"?

Alternatives include "decline to disclose", "withhold information", or "remain silent about", depending on the context.

Is "refuse to reveal" formal or informal?

"Refuse to reveal" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very informal contexts, phrases like "won't say" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "refuse to reveal" and "decline to comment"?

"Refuse to reveal" suggests a broader withholding of information, while "decline to comment" specifically refers to a refusal to make a statement. The former implies secrecy, while the latter implies avoiding discussion.