What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
declassified
Example
The government declassified the documents after 50 years. [declassified: verb]
Example
The declassified files revealed new information about the Cold War era. [declassified: adjective]
unclassified
Example
The report is unclassified and available for public access. [unclassified: adjective]
Example
The email contained only unclassified information. [unclassified: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unclassified is more commonly used than declassified in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is not limited to sensitive or confidential information.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between declassified and unclassified?
Both declassified and unclassified can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the nature of the information being described. However, declassified may be more commonly associated with formal or official language due to its use in government or military contexts.
