Words / B2

k-uh-n-SEEL/kənˈsiːl/

To conceal is to hide a fact, object, or feeling on purpose: conceal a conflict of interest; conceal evidence. Hide is everyday; cover up is more informal and often dishonest. Ethics forms: do not conceal a conflict. Do not mix with conceited.

Meaning

To hide a fact, object, or feeling on purpose.

Examples

• “Do not conceal a conflict of interest on the ethics form.”
• “The report accused the firm of concealing test failures.”

Good to know

conceal something from someone. Everyday: hide. Informal: cover up. Legal: conceal evidence. Mix-up: conceited. Opposite: disclose (already in the dictionary).

Near in meaning

hide

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