Using 'inform on' often implies betrayal, as it can be seen as disloyal. He didn't want to inform on his coworker, fearing the label of a traitor.
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Legal Scenarios
'Inform on' is commonly used in legal or criminal contexts, involving police or authority figures. The witness decided to inform on the suspect to help the investigation.
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Whistleblowing
In a workplace, 'inform on' can refer to whistleblowing, which often involves reporting unethical conduct. After discovering the fraud, she decided to inform on her company to the authorities.