English Reference
adjective

informed

adj.
US /ˌɪnˈfɔɹmd/ UK /ɪnfˈɔːmd/ in·formed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    having a lot of knowledge or information about a specific subject.

    possessing or exhibiting a high level of knowledge or education regarding a particular field or set of facts.

    Simple

    She is very informed about the current political situation in Europe.

    In context

    The panel consisted of highly informed experts who had spent decades researching the socio-economic impacts of urban sprawl.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    describing a choice or opinion that is based on solid facts and understanding.

    grounded in or characterized by a thorough understanding of the relevant facts and circumstances.

    Simple

    Reading different news sources helps you make an informed choice when you vote.

    In context

    The board reached an informed decision only after reviewing the comprehensive financial audits and market projections provided by the consultants.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency ArchaicTechnical Science

    an old word for stars that were not part of a known group or constellation.

    referring to stars not included within the boundaries of any of the anciently recognized constellations.

    Simple

    The old map showed several informed stars that did not belong to any constellation.

    In context

    In early astronomical catalogues, certain stars were described as informed because they sat outside the traditional Ptolemaic figures.

    Usage

    In modern astronomy, this term has been replaced by 'unformed' or specific coordinate designations.

    unformedunassigned

Usage informed decisions

While Hunt, then 17, knew it was quick, she was soon informed that she had broken the under-18 women's world record.

BBC News· 17 Aug 2026

His public relations officer, Yuvaraj, told BBC Tamil that the media would be informed if the actor issued a statement.

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026

Etymology 1

From inform + -ed.

Etymology 2

From in- + formed; the first sense probably uses in- (“in”), while the second sense uses in- (“prefix of negation”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated