declassify

/di'klæsifai/

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Sure! Let’s break down the word “declassify.”

Definition:

Declassify is a verb that means to remove the secret status from information or documents. When something is declassified, it becomes available for the public to read or access.

Usage:

You can use "declassify" when talking about government documents, military information, or confidential materials that were previously kept secret.

Example:

• "The government decided to declassify the documents related to the historical event, allowing researchers to study them."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "declassify" can refer to the legal and administrative processes that organizations or governments follow to change the status of information from classified (secret) to unclassified (public).

Word Variants:

• Declassification (noun): The process of removing the classified status.

  • Example: "The declassification of the files took several months."

• Declassified (adjective): Describes something that has been made public.

  • Example: "The declassified documents revealed new information about the event."

Different Meaning:

While "declassify" primarily refers to removing secret status, it can also be used in a broader sense to indicate making something accessible that was previously restricted.

Synonyms:

• Unseal
• Uncover
• Release
• Make public

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "declassify," but you might hear phrases like: - "Open the books" (to make information available for scrutiny) - "Let the cat out of the bag" (to reveal a secret)

Summary:

In summary, "declassify" means to make secret information available to the public. It’s often used in contexts involving government or military documents.

Academic

Verb

1. lift the restriction on and make available again
   • reclassify the documents