Expose
/ɪkˈspoʊz/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo reveal or make something visible that was previously hidden.
/ɪkˈspoʊz/
To reveal or uncover something, especially something concealed or secret.
The investigative report exposed the company's fraudulent practices.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're finding a hidden secret, or showing something that was covered up. Like when a detective *exposes* the villain's plan.
👶 For kids: To show something that was hidden, like uncovering a treasure or telling a secret.
More Examples
The journalist's work exposed the truth behind the scandal.
He exposed the film to the bright sunlight.
How It's Used
"The newspaper exposed the corruption within the government."
"The photographer exposed the film to light."
"The experiment exposed the sample to high temperatures."
To allow someone or something to experience a particular condition, especially harmful or unpleasant ones.
/ɪkˈspoʊz/
To subject someone or something to (a particular influence, action, or condition).
The workers were exposed to dangerous chemicals in the factory.
💡 Simply: When you're 'exposed', it means something has affected you – like when you get sick from being near someone, or your skin gets burned in the sun.
👶 For kids: To be around something, like being near a sick person or being out in the sun.
More Examples
They were exposed to the harsh realities of war.
The painting was exposed to sunlight and faded.
How It's Used
"He was exposed to the virus at the conference."
"The plants are exposed to the elements."
To present something for viewing or consideration.
/ɪkˈspoʊz/
To present, make something available to view or experience.
The company is exposing its new products to a wider market.
💡 Simply: When you show or present something, like a new idea, artwork, or experiment, you are *exposing* it to others.
👶 For kids: To show something to people, like showing your toys or sharing your ideas.
More Examples
The exhibit will expose the public to contemporary art.
The research paper will expose the results of the study.
How It's Used
"The museum is exposing several of Picasso's early works."
"The new study is exposing a novel approach."
Idioms & expressions
exposed to the elements
Subjected to the harshness of the weather.
"The hikers were exposed to the elements during the storm."
exposed to the sun
Being subjected to the ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
"Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause skin damage."
From Middle French *exposer*, from Latin *exponere* ('to put or set forth'), from *ex-* ('out') + *ponere* ('to place').
The word 'expose' has been used since the 16th century, evolving from its Latin roots to refer to the act of revealing or presenting something.
Memory tip
Think of a photographer: they *expose* the film to light to make an image appear.
Word Origin
"to put or set forth"