inform

/ɪnˈfɔːm/

Group 18Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(verb)
To give a particular quality or character to; to permeate
GRE

Example in Context

The artist's childhood experiences in rural poverty deeply informed the themes of loss and resilience that permeate her work.

Synonyms

shapeinfluenceguide

Etymology

To give shape or character by imparting information.

  • in- (Latin) — into
  • formare (Latin) — to form

Memory Aid

📝Sounds like “in form

When you’re IN FORM, you’re the one that INFORMs everyone about the latest gossip!

Visual Association

📚A giant book spilling out knowledge like confetti, filling the room with information.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “inform” mean on the GRE?

inform (verb) means “To give a particular quality or character to; to permeate”. The artist's childhood experiences in rural poverty deeply informed the themes of loss and resilience that permeate her work.

How to remember “inform” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “inform” sounds like “in form”. When you’re IN FORM, you’re the one that INFORMs everyone about the latest gossip!

What are synonyms for “inform”?

Common synonyms: shape, influence, guide.