What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
confess
Example
He decided to confess to the crime he had committed. [confess: verb]
Example
She confessed her love for him after keeping it a secret for so long. [confessed: past tense]
reveal
Example
The detective revealed the identity of the murderer. [reveal: verb]
Example
The magician revealed the secret behind his trick. [revealed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reveal is more commonly used than confess in everyday language. Reveal is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while confess is more specific and often associated with personal experiences or emotions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between confess and reveal?
Both confess and reveal can be used in formal or informal contexts, but confess is often associated with a more serious or emotional tone, while reveal can be used in a more neutral or positive tone.