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B1 Verb (past tense/past participle) / Adjective #22 most common 16 min read

declared

Top 22

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips declared in 30 Seconds

Explanation declared in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of the word 'declared' as a very strong way of saying 'said'. Imagine a king or a queen in a storybook. They do not just 'say' things; they 'declare' them because they are very important people. For example, 'The king declared, "Today is a holiday!"' This means everyone must listen because it is official. You might also see this word at the airport. If you have a big bag of chocolate to give as a gift, the officer might ask if you have anything to 'declare'. This just means you need to tell them what is in your bag. It is a special word for telling the truth to someone in a uniform. Even though 'declared' is a big word, you can remember it by thinking of it as 'telling something important to everyone'. In simple sentences, we use it to show that someone is speaking very clearly and firmly. For example, 'He declared that he was happy.' This sounds more certain than just saying 'He said he was happy.' It means he really wanted everyone to know his feelings. So, when you see 'declared', think of a loud, clear, and important voice making a statement.

At the A2 level, you will start to see 'declared' used in more specific situations, like in news stories or when talking about rules. It is the past tense of 'declare'. When someone 'declared' something, they made it known to other people in a formal way. For example, 'The school declared a snow day.' This means the school made an official announcement that there would be no classes because of the snow. It is more official than a teacher just telling a student. You will also use 'declared' when talking about things you bring into a country. When you travel, you might have to fill out a paper and 'declare' what you bought. This means you are reporting your items to the government. Another common use is in sports. If a referee 'declared' a winner, it means the game is officially over and we know who won. You can use 'declared' in your own writing when you want to show that a character is making a very firm promise or statement. Instead of writing 'She said she would win,' you can write 'She declared that she would win.' This makes your writing sound more interesting and shows that the character is very confident. Remember, 'declared' is about making things official and public.

At the B1 level, 'declared' becomes a key word for discussing official procedures, legal statuses, and firm personal positions. You should understand that 'declared' implies a level of authority or a formal process. For instance, in a business context, a company might have 'declared a profit'. This isn't just a casual comment; it's a formal financial statement. In legal terms, a person might be 'declared bankrupt', which is a specific legal status that changes how they can use their money. You should also be familiar with the adjective use of the word. A 'declared candidate' is someone who has officially said they want to be elected. This is different from someone who is just thinking about it. When you use 'declared' in your speaking or writing, you are signaling that the information is definitive. For example, 'The doctor declared him healthy enough to return to work.' This use of 'declared' shows that the doctor has made a professional judgment. You can also use it to describe reporting income for taxes. 'He declared all his earnings to the tax office.' This shows honesty and following the law. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between 'declared' and 'said' based on the formality of the situation. 'Declared' is for the record, while 'said' is for the moment.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'declared' with nuance in various professional and academic contexts. It often appears in the passive voice to describe official states of affairs: 'A state of emergency was declared following the floods.' This structure is common in journalism and formal reports. You should also understand its use in specific fields like cricket, where a captain 'declares' an innings closed as a strategic move. This requires an understanding of the word as a performative act—an utterance that actually changes the rules or the state of the game. In academic writing, 'declared' can be used to describe a researcher's stated position or the definition of a variable in computer science. For example, 'The variable must be declared before it can be used in the function.' Furthermore, you should be aware of the difference between 'declared' and 'proclaimed'. While 'declared' is official and functional, 'proclaimed' often carries a more celebratory or historical tone. At B2, you should also be comfortable using 'declared' as a dialogue tag to add weight to a character's speech in creative writing. '"I will not be silenced," she declared.' This conveys a sense of defiance and public stance. Mastery at this level involves knowing not just what the word means, but the specific 'flavor' of authority and finality it brings to a sentence.

At the C1 level, 'declared' is used to analyze complex legal, political, and philosophical statements. You will encounter it in foundational documents, such as the 'Declaration of Independence', where the act of declaring is a revolutionary assertion of sovereignty. You should be able to discuss the implications of something being 'declared' versus 'implied'. For instance, in contract law, a 'declared intent' is often more legally binding than an unstated one. You should also be familiar with more technical uses, such as 'declared value' in shipping and insurance, which has significant financial consequences if the information is inaccurate. In literature and high-level discourse, 'declared' can be used to describe a person's open alignment with a particular ideology or school of thought: 'He was a declared existentialist.' This suggests a conscious, public, and perhaps even provocative stance. You should also be able to use the word ironically or metaphorically. For example, 'The garden, though neglected, declared its beauty through a single blooming rose.' Here, 'declared' is used to show how a physical state can communicate a message as clearly as a verbal one. At this level, your use of 'declared' should reflect an understanding of its power to define reality, establish legal precedents, and signal profound personal or political commitment.

At the C2 level, you should have a comprehensive and effortless command of 'declared' across all registers and specialized domains. You understand its role as a 'speech act'—a term in linguistics where saying something is the same as doing something. When a judge 'declares' a mistrial, the trial is instantly over because of those words. You can use 'declared' to navigate the finest nuances of diplomatic and legal language, where the choice between 'declared', 'affirmed', 'asserted', or 'professed' can have major international or judicial ramifications. You are also aware of the word's historical weight, recognizing how 'declarations' have shaped the course of human history and human rights. In your own writing, you can use 'declared' to create a sense of absolute certainty or to highlight the performative nature of public life. You might use it in a critique of political rhetoric, analyzing how a leader 'declared' victory despite evidence to the contrary. You also understand the technicalities of 'declared' in fields like computer science (variable declaration vs. definition) and economics (declared dividends and their impact on market perception). At C2, 'declared' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a tool for precise conceptual mapping, allowing you to describe the formalization of thought, the reporting of assets, and the public assertion of identity with total accuracy and stylistic flair.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

declared in 30 Seconds

The word 'declared' is used to make formal, public, or official statements that establish a fact or a state of affairs for everyone to know.
It is a key term in legal, political, and financial contexts, such as declaring war, declaring bankruptcy, or declaring income to the tax office.
In travel, it specifically refers to reporting goods to customs officials to ensure they are legal and properly taxed upon entering a country.
As an adjective, it describes a person who has openly stated their beliefs or status, such as a declared candidate or a declared supporter.

The word declared is a multifaceted term primarily functioning as the past tense and past participle of the verb 'declare'. At its core, it signifies the act of making a formal, explicit, and often public statement. When something is declared, it is moved from the realm of the private, the uncertain, or the implicit into the realm of the known and the official. This transition is crucial in legal, political, and social contexts. For instance, when a government official stands before a podium and states that a state of emergency exists, they have declared it. This is not merely a suggestion; it is a performative utterance that changes the legal reality of the situation. The weight of the word carries an inherent authority, suggesting that the speaker has the right or the obligation to make the information known to a wider audience. In everyday usage, it can also describe a person stating their intentions or feelings with great clarity and firmness, leaving no room for doubt or misinterpretation.

Formal Proclamation: This refers to the official announcement of a fact or a state of affairs, such as a country declaring war or a winner being declared in an election. It implies a definitive end to speculation.

The referee declared the match a draw after neither side could find a winning goal in extra time.

Beyond formal announcements, declared has a specific technical meaning in the world of commerce and travel. When you cross international borders, you are often required to list items you are bringing into the country. If you list these items on a customs form, you have declared them. This usage is tied to the concept of transparency and legal compliance. Failure to declare goods can lead to fines or confiscation, highlighting that 'declared' in this context means 'to reveal or report to an authority'. Similarly, in the financial world, one might have declared income, which refers to money that has been officially reported to tax authorities. This distinguishes it from 'under-the-table' or 'unreported' earnings. The act of declaring in these scenarios is a gesture of honesty and adherence to the regulatory frameworks of society.

Customs and Tax: The act of reporting goods or income to the government to ensure proper taxation and legal entry into a jurisdiction.

Upon arrival at the airport, she declared the expensive jewelry she had purchased abroad.

In the context of sports, specifically cricket, the word takes on a very specific strategic meaning. A captain might decide to end their team's innings before all the batsmen are out. When they do this, they have declared the innings closed. This is a tactical move designed to give the opposing team enough time to bat so that a result can be reached before the match ends. Here, 'declared' signifies a voluntary cessation of an activity for a strategic advantage. Furthermore, as an adjective, 'declared' can describe a person who has openly stated their beliefs or status. For example, a 'declared candidate' is someone who has officially entered a race for office, as opposed to someone who is merely considering it. This usage emphasizes the public nature of the commitment.

Cricket Strategy: A tactical decision by a captain to stop batting, usually to force a result in a limited-time match.

The captain declared at 450 for 4, confident that his bowlers could dismiss the opposition.

Finally, the word is often used in philosophical or scientific contexts to denote a definitive finding or a stated position. When a scientist declares a hypothesis to be proven, they are staking their professional reputation on that claim. In computer programming, 'declared' refers to the act of defining a variable or a function so that the system knows it exists. This broad range of applications—from the airport to the laboratory to the cricket pitch—demonstrates that 'declared' is fundamentally about the power of language to define reality, establish facts, and formalize intentions. It is a word of clarity, authority, and public record, making it indispensable for precise communication in English.

The variable was declared as an integer at the beginning of the code to prevent errors.

He declared his intention to run for mayor during the press conference yesterday.

Using the word declared correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical structures and the contexts in which it appears. As a verb, it often follows the pattern of 'Subject + declared + (that) + Clause' or 'Subject + declared + Object + Complement'. For example, 'The doctor declared the patient fit for travel.' In this case, 'the patient' is the object, and 'fit for travel' is the complement that describes the state being declared. This structure is common in professional settings where an expert provides a definitive judgment. Another common pattern is 'Subject + declared + Object', as in 'She declared her assets to the bank.' Here, the focus is on the act of reporting or revealing specific information. Understanding these patterns allows for more sophisticated sentence construction.

Direct Object Usage: When you declare a thing, such as 'declaring war' or 'declaring a dividend'. This is direct and impactful.

The board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of fifty cents per share.

When using declared in the passive voice, the focus shifts from the person making the statement to the statement itself. For instance, 'The results were declared at midnight.' This is particularly useful in news reporting where the authority making the declaration is understood or less important than the timing and content of the announcement. In the passive form, 'declared' often takes a complement: 'The building was declared unsafe by the fire department.' This emphasizes the status of the building rather than the fire department's action. This flexibility makes 'declared' a versatile tool for both active, authoritative statements and more objective, descriptive reporting of facts.

Passive Voice: Used when the announcement itself is the focus, often seen in headlines and official reports.

The winner was declared after a grueling three-hour counting process.

In more personal or literary contexts, declared can be used to convey a sense of drama or high emotion. '"I will never return!" he declared.' In this dialogue tag, 'declared' suggests a level of intensity and finality that 'said' simply cannot match. It implies that the speaker is making a vow or a significant proclamation. This usage is common in novels and storytelling to highlight pivotal moments in a character's journey. It can also be used ironically in informal speech: 'He declared himself the king of the kitchen while making toast.' Here, the formal weight of the word is used for comedic effect, contrasting the triviality of the action with the grandiosity of the word.

Dialogue Tag: A way to attribute speech that emphasizes the speaker's conviction or the importance of the statement.

"I have nothing to hide," she declared firmly to the investigating officers.

Finally, consider the usage of 'declared' in legal and administrative documents. Phrases like 'declared value' or 'declared weight' are essential for shipping and insurance. In these cases, the word functions almost like a fixed label, indicating that the value or weight has been officially stated by the owner or sender. This ensures that all parties are operating based on the same information. Whether you are writing a formal report, a creative story, or filling out a government form, choosing 'declared' allows you to communicate with a level of precision and authority that signals the importance of the information being shared.

The declared value of the package was one thousand dollars for insurance purposes.

He was a declared supporter of the environmental movement for over twenty years.

The word declared is a staple of news broadcasts and journalistic writing. You will hear it most frequently when reporters discuss government actions, legal rulings, or international relations. For example, a news anchor might say, 'The Prime Minister has declared a national day of mourning.' In this context, the word signals that an official decree has been made. It is also common in sports journalism, particularly in sports like cricket where 'declaring' is a specific tactical move, or in boxing and MMA when a winner is 'declared' by the judges. The word provides a sense of finality and official sanction that is essential for reporting facts to the public.

Broadcast News: Used to report official government announcements, states of emergency, or the results of elections.

The governor declared a state of emergency as the hurricane approached the coast.

Another common environment for hearing 'declared' is at international borders and airports. Customs officers frequently ask travelers, 'Do you have anything to be declared?' This question is a standard part of the entry process into many countries. In this setting, the word is synonymous with 'reporting' or 'revealing'. You might also hear it in the context of tax season, where financial advisors or government advertisements remind citizens to ensure all income is 'properly declared'. These everyday administrative interactions reinforce the word's connection to legal responsibility and transparency with authorities.

Travel and Customs: A standard term used by customs officials to ask if travelers are carrying restricted or taxable items.

"Please step aside if you have declared any agricultural products," the officer said.

In the corporate world, 'declared' is heard during shareholder meetings and in financial reports. When a company 'declares a dividend', it is a major piece of news for investors. You might hear a CEO say, 'We are pleased to have declared a record dividend this year.' This usage is formal and precise, indicating a legally binding commitment by the company to pay its shareholders. Similarly, in legal proceedings, a judge might 'declare a mistrial' or 'declare a witness hostile'. These are powerful verbal acts that immediately change the course of a trial. Hearing 'declared' in these contexts highlights its role as a word of significant consequence.

Legal and Corporate: Used in courtrooms and boardrooms to make binding decisions or financial commitments.

The judge declared a mistrial after the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict.

Finally, 'declared' appears in cultural and social discussions. Someone might be a 'declared fan' of a particular artist, or a group might have 'declared their support' for a social cause. In these cases, the word emphasizes a conscious and public alignment with an idea or a person. It moves beyond a simple preference to a stated identity. Whether it is a politician on television, a customs officer at the airport, or a friend stating their firm opinion, 'declared' is the word of choice when the speaker wants to emphasize that something has been made official, public, and undeniable.

The tech giant declared its commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2040.

The local council declared the old library a heritage site to protect it from demolition.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with declared is confusing it with simpler verbs like 'said' or 'told'. While 'declared' is a way of saying something, it carries a much higher level of formality and authority. You should not use 'declared' for casual, everyday comments. For example, saying 'He declared that he wanted a sandwich' sounds unnaturally dramatic and slightly odd in a normal conversation unless you are being intentionally funny. Use 'declared' only when the statement is significant, official, or made with great conviction. Understanding the 'weight' of the word is key to using it naturally.

Overuse in Casual Speech: Using 'declared' for trivial statements makes the speaker sound overly formal or theatrical.

Incorrect: "I declared to my mom that I was going to the park."

Another frequent error involves the prepositional structure. Some learners try to use 'declared to' in ways that mimic 'said to' or 'talked to'. While you can 'declare something to someone' (e.g., 'He declared his love to her'), you cannot simply 'declare to someone' without an object. The word 'declared' almost always requires an object or a 'that' clause to follow it. For instance, 'He declared to the press' is incomplete; it should be 'He declared his resignation to the press' or 'He declared to the press that he was resigning'. Always ensure that the thing being declared is clearly identified in your sentence.

Missing Object: Failing to specify what is being announced makes the sentence grammatically weak or confusing.

Incorrect: "The president declared to the nation yesterday."

Confusion also arises between 'declared' and 'claimed'. While both involve making a statement, 'claimed' often implies that the statement might not be true or is yet to be proven. 'Declared', on the other hand, is usually used for statements that are official or intended to be accepted as fact. If a person says they saw a UFO, they 'claimed' to see it. If a government says a new law is in effect, they 'declared' it. Using 'declared' when you should use 'claimed' can make you sound like you are giving too much authority to an unverified statement. Conversely, using 'claimed' for an official announcement can sound dismissive or skeptical.

Declared vs. Claimed: 'Declared' is for official facts; 'claimed' is for assertions that might be disputed.

Incorrect: "The thief declared that he was innocent." (Better: claimed)

Lastly, be careful with the adjective form. A 'declared' person is someone who has made their status known, but this is usually limited to specific contexts like 'a declared candidate' or 'a declared atheist'. You wouldn't say 'a declared tall person' because being tall is an obvious physical trait, not a status that needs to be officially stated. The adjective 'declared' is reserved for internal beliefs, legal statuses, or professional roles that require a public statement to be recognized. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can use 'declared' with the precision and authority it was meant to convey.

Incorrect: "He is a declared owner of a red car." (Better: He is the owner...)

The company declared bankruptcy after years of declining sales.

To truly master the word declared, it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and understand the subtle differences in meaning. One of the closest synonyms is announced. While both involve making information public, 'announced' is often used for general news or upcoming events (e.g., 'They announced their wedding date'). 'Declared' is more formal and often carries legal or official weight. You 'announce' a party, but you 'declare' a state of emergency. 'Declared' suggests a change in status or a definitive judgment, whereas 'announced' is more about the act of sharing information. Choosing between them depends on the level of authority you want to convey.

Declared vs. Announced: 'Declared' is official and authoritative; 'announced' is for sharing news or plans.

The company announced its new product line, but declared a loss for the quarter.

Another similar word is proclaimed. 'Proclaimed' is even more formal than 'declared' and often has a sense of grandeur or historical importance. It is frequently used in the context of royalty or major historical shifts (e.g., 'The king was proclaimed the new ruler'). While you could use 'declared' in many of the same places, 'proclaimed' adds a layer of ceremony. In contrast, stated is a much more neutral and less dramatic alternative. If you want to describe someone giving information without the 'official' feel of 'declared', 'stated' is the better choice. 'He stated his name and address' is simple and factual, whereas 'He declared his name' sounds like he is making a formal testimony.

Declared vs. Proclaimed: 'Proclaimed' is ceremonial and grand; 'declared' is official and functional.

The independence of the nation was proclaimed in the city square.

In the context of reporting things to authorities, disclosed and reported are useful alternatives. 'Disclosed' implies revealing something that was previously hidden or secret (e.g., 'The company disclosed its environmental impact'). 'Declared' is more about the formal act of listing something, like on a tax form. 'Reported' is a broad term that can cover many types of information sharing. If you are talking about a crime, you 'report' it. If you are talking about your income to the tax office, you 'declare' it. Each of these words emphasizes a different aspect of the act of communication—whether it is the secrecy being broken, the official nature of the list, or the simple act of informing.

Declared vs. Disclosed: 'Disclosed' focuses on making a secret known; 'declared' focuses on official reporting.

He disclosed his conflict of interest before the vote was declared valid.

Finally, consider decreed. A 'decree' is an official order issued by a legal authority. While you 'declare' a state of affairs, you 'decree' a new law or rule. 'Decreed' is much more forceful and implies a command that must be followed. By understanding these nuances, you can choose the word that perfectly fits the tone and intent of your message. Whether you need the official weight of 'declared', the ceremonial flair of 'proclaimed', the neutral tone of 'stated', or the secretive reveal of 'disclosed', having this range of vocabulary will make your English much more expressive and precise.

The court declared the law unconstitutional and decreed that it be repealed immediately.

She stated her case clearly, and the committee declared her the winner of the grant.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The root of 'declared' is the same as the word 'clear'. So, when you declare something, you are literally 'clearing' it up for everyone to see.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dɪˈkleəd/

US /dɪˈklerd/

The stress is on the second syllable: di-CLARED.

Rhymes With

shared scared prepared compared spared paired dared aired

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'de-clared' with a long 'e' in the first syllable.
Forgetting the 'd' at the end when using it as a past tense verb.
Mixing up the 'cl' sound with a 'cr' sound.
Putting the stress on the first syllable.
Pronouncing the 'ed' as a separate syllable like 'de-clar-ed'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common in news and books, making it easy to recognize.

Writing 4/5

Requires understanding of formal structures and prepositions.

Speaking 3/5

The pronunciation is straightforward, but the tone must be right.

Listening 3/5

Easily understood in context, especially in official announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

say tell clear official public

Learn Next

proclaim assert manifesto decree affirmed

Advanced

performative utterance declaratory judgment sovereignty jurisdiction restructuring

Grammar to Know

Reporting Verbs

He declared that he was innocent. (Similar to 'said that')

Passive Voice for Official States

The area was declared a no-fly zone.

Adjective Placement

A declared candidate (before the noun).

Reflexive Verbs

She declared herself the winner.

Object Complements

The judge declared the contract void.

Examples by Level

The king declared a holiday.

Le roi a déclaré un jour férié.

Subject + verb (past) + object.

He declared his name to the police.

Il a déclaré son nom à la police.

Simple past tense.

She declared that she was happy.

Elle a déclaré qu'elle était heureuse.

Using 'that' clause.

The teacher declared the test over.

Le professeur a déclaré le test terminé.

Subject + verb + object + complement.

I declared my toys at the border.

J'ai déclaré mes jouets à la frontière.

Reporting items.

They declared the winner of the race.

Ils ont déclaré le vainqueur de la course.

Official announcement.

He declared, "I am here!"

Il a déclaré : « Je suis là ! »

Dialogue tag.

The sign declared the park closed.

Le panneau a déclaré le parc fermé.

Metaphorical use for a sign.

The city declared a state of emergency.

La ville a déclaré l'état d'urgence.

Official government action.

She declared her income on the form.

Elle a déclaré ses revenus sur le formulaire.

Reporting to authorities.

The referee declared the game a tie.

L'arbitre a déclaré le match nul.

Sports context.

He declared his intention to leave early.

Il a déclaré son intention de partir tôt.

Stating a plan.

The company declared a small profit.

L'entreprise a déclaré un petit bénéfice.

Business context.

The doctor declared the patient healthy.

Le médecin a déclaré le patient en bonne santé.

Professional judgment.

They declared the building unsafe.

Ils ont déclaré le bâtiment dangereux.

Official status.

She declared herself a fan of the band.

Elle s'est déclarée fan du groupe.

Reflexive use.

The candidate declared her support for the new law.

La candidate a déclaré son soutien à la nouvelle loi.

Public alignment.

He was declared bankrupt by the court.

Il a été déclaré en faillite par le tribunal.

Passive voice, legal status.

The captain declared the innings closed.

Le capitaine a déclaré la manche terminée.

Technical sports term.

She declared the meeting open at 9 AM.

Elle a déclaré la réunion ouverte à 9 heures.

Formal procedure.

The value of the goods must be declared.

La valeur des marchandises doit être déclarée.

Passive voice, requirement.

He declared that he had no knowledge of the event.

Il a déclaré qu'il n'avait aucune connaissance de l'événement.

Formal denial.

The island was declared a national park.

L'île a été déclarée parc national.

Official designation.

She declared her love for him in a letter.

Elle lui a déclaré son amour dans une lettre.

Personal declaration.

The government declared war on poverty.

Le gouvernement a déclaré la guerre à la pauvreté.

Metaphorical use of 'war'.

The results were declared invalid due to fraud.

Les résultats ont été déclarés invalides pour cause de fraude.

Passive voice, legal consequence.

He is a declared enemy of the current regime.

Il est un ennemi déclaré du régime actuel.

Adjective use.

The variable was declared at the top of the script.

La variable a été déclarée en haut du script.

Technical programming term.

The board declared a dividend for all shareholders.

Le conseil d'administration a déclaré un dividende pour tous les actionnaires.

Corporate finance term.

She declared that the project was ahead of schedule.

Elle a déclaré que le projet était en avance sur le calendrier.

Formal reporting.

The building was declared a heritage site.

Le bâtiment a été déclaré site du patrimoine.

Official protection status.

He declared his assets before taking office.

Il a déclaré ses avoirs avant d'entrer en fonction.

Ethics and transparency.

The court declared the law unconstitutional.

Le tribunal a déclaré la loi inconstitutionnelle.

High-level legal ruling.

He declared himself satisfied with the outcome.

Il s'est déclaré satisfait du résultat.

Formal self-reflection.

The region was declared a disaster zone.

La région a été déclarée zone de catastrophe.

Administrative designation.

She is a declared advocate for human rights.

Elle est une défenseuse déclarée des droits de l'homme.

Adjective indicating public stance.

The treaty declared an end to the hostilities.

Le traité a déclaré la fin des hostilités.

Diplomatic language.

The witness declared that she had seen the suspect.

Le témoin a déclaré qu'elle avait vu le suspect.

Formal testimony.

The company declared bankruptcy to restructure its debt.

L'entreprise a déclaré faillite pour restructurer sa dette.

Strategic financial move.

The poem declared the author's love for nature.

Le poème déclarait l'amour de l'auteur pour la nature.

Metaphorical expression.

The sovereign state declared its independence from the empire.

L'État souverain a déclaré son indépendance vis-à-vis de l'empire.

Historical/Political act.

The scientist declared the experiment a resounding success.

Le scientifique a déclaré l'expérience comme un succès retentissant.

Professional assertion.

The judge declared a mistrial after the jury was deadlocked.

Le juge a déclaré un vice de procédure après que le jury a été bloqué.

Specific legal procedure.

He declared his unwavering loyalty to the cause.

Il a déclaré sa loyauté indéfectible à la cause.

High-level emotional expression.

The manifesto declared a new era of artistic expression.

Le manifeste a déclaré une nouvelle ère d'expression artistique.

Intellectual movement.

The policy was declared null and void by the council.

La politique a été déclarée nulle et non avenue par le conseil.

Legal phraseology.

She declared that the findings were open to interpretation.

Elle a déclaré que les conclusions étaient sujettes à interprétation.

Academic nuance.

The city declared itself a sanctuary for refugees.

La ville s'est déclarée sanctuaire pour les réfugiés.

Social/Political designation.

Common Collocations

declared war

declared bankruptcy

officially declared

declared a dividend

declared value

declared winner

declared invalid

declared intention

publicly declared

declared fit

Common Phrases

nothing to declare

— A phrase used at customs to say you have no taxable goods. It is often seen on green signs at airports.

I walked through the 'nothing to declare' channel at the airport.

declared dead on arrival

— A medical term for someone who is already deceased when they reach the hospital. It is often abbreviated as DOA.

The victim of the accident was sadly declared dead on arrival.

declared a mistrial

— When a judge ends a trial without a verdict because of an error or a hung jury. This means the trial must start over.

The judge declared a mistrial after the jury could not agree.

declared a state of emergency

— An official announcement that a crisis is happening and special rules are in place. This allows the government to act quickly.

The governor declared a state of emergency due to the floods.

well-declared

— Something that has been stated clearly and effectively. This is less common but used in formal writing.

Her well-declared goals helped the team stay focused.

declared interest

— A situation where someone officially states they have a personal connection to a matter. This is important for avoiding bias.

He had a declared interest in the company bidding for the contract.

declared candidate

— A person who has officially entered a political race. They are no longer just considering running.

The declared candidate began her campaign tour today.

declared assets

— Money or property that has been officially reported to the authorities. This is often required for public officials.

The politician's declared assets were reviewed by the committee.

declared void

— When something is officially stated to have no legal force or effect. It is as if it never existed.

The previous agreement was declared void by the new board.

declared enemy

— Someone who has openly stated that they are against another person or group. There is no secret about the conflict.

He has been a declared enemy of the project from the start.

Often Confused With

declared vs announced

Announced is for sharing news; declared is for making it official or legal.

declared vs claimed

Claimed implies the statement might be false; declared implies it is an official fact.

declared vs stated

Stated is neutral and factual; declared is authoritative and public.

Idioms & Expressions

"declare yourself"

— To make your feelings or intentions known to someone. This is often used in romantic or competitive contexts.

He finally decided to declare himself to her at the party.

informal/romantic

"declare war on something"

— To start a very strong effort to stop or destroy something bad. This is a metaphorical use of the word 'war'.

The city has declared war on littering in the parks.

neutral

"declare an interest"

— To admit that you have a personal reason for being involved in something. This is usually done to be honest.

I must declare an interest; my brother works for that firm.

formal

"declare a winner"

— To officially name the person who has won a competition. This is the final step in any contest.

The judges will declare a winner at the end of the night.

neutral

"declare open"

— To officially start an event, like a building opening or a sports game. It is a ceremonial phrase.

The mayor will declare the new library open tomorrow.

formal

"declare for someone"

— To officially state that you support a particular person, usually in an election. It shows public loyalty.

Several senators have already declared for the frontrunner.

political

"declare off"

— To officially cancel an agreement or a planned event. This is more common in British English.

They have declared the deal off after the latest news.

neutral

"declare a dividend"

— When a company's board officially decides to pay money to its shareholders. It is a sign of financial health.

The company is expected to declare a dividend next week.

business

"declare bankruptcy"

— To officially state that you cannot pay your debts. This is a legal process that protects the person or company.

The airline was forced to declare bankruptcy after the strike.

legal

"declare a mistrial"

— When a judge stops a trial because of a serious mistake. This is a powerful legal action.

The judge had no choice but to declare a mistrial.

legal

Easily Confused

declared vs proclaimed

Both mean making a public statement.

Proclaimed is more ceremonial and grand, often used for kings or major historical shifts. Declared is more functional and official, used for laws or taxes.

The king was proclaimed ruler, but the law was declared valid.

declared vs decreed

Both involve official statements from authority.

A decree is an order or command that must be followed. A declaration is a statement of fact or status. You declare a state of emergency, but you decree a new tax.

The court declared the law void and decreed a new election.

declared vs asserted

Both involve stating something firmly.

Asserted is used when someone states an opinion or a claim forcefully, often without proof. Declared is used for official or public statements of fact.

She asserted her innocence, but the judge declared her guilty.

declared vs disclosed

Both involve giving information to others.

Disclosed specifically means revealing something that was hidden or secret. Declared is the formal act of reporting, whether it was secret or not.

He disclosed the secret documents and declared his resignation.

declared vs affirmed

Both mean saying something is true.

Affirmed is often used to confirm a previous statement or a belief. Declared is the initial act of making the statement known.

He declared his loyalty and affirmed it with an oath.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + declared + object.

The king declared a holiday.

Subject + declared + that + clause.

He declared that he was ready.

Subject + was declared + adjective.

The building was declared unsafe.

Subject + declared + object + adjective.

The doctor declared him fit.

Subject + declared + reflexive pronoun + noun.

She declared herself a candidate.

It was declared that + clause.

It was declared that the law was void.

Adjective + noun (declared as adjective).

A declared supporter of the cause.

Having declared + object, subject + verb.

Having declared his assets, the minister took his seat.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in news, law, business, and formal literature.

Common Mistakes

Using 'declared' for casual conversation. → I said I was hungry.
Using 'declared' for trivial things like being hungry sounds unnaturally formal or like you are acting in a play.
Saying 'He declared to the police' without an object. → He declared his name to the police.
You must specify what was being declared. The verb 'declared' needs an object to be grammatically complete.
Confusing 'declared' with 'claimed' for unverified rumors. → He claimed he saw a ghost.
If something is not an official fact or a firm public stance, 'claimed' is better because it suggests the statement might not be true.
Pronouncing 'declared' as three syllables (de-clar-ed). → Pronounce it as two syllables (di-CLARED).
The 'ed' ending in 'declared' is just a 'd' sound, not a full extra syllable. Adding a syllable makes it sound incorrect.
Using 'declared' when you mean 'decreed' for an order. → The king decreed a new tax.
A declaration is a statement of fact; a decree is a command. If you want people to do something, use 'decreed'.

Tips

Use for Authority

Always use 'declared' when the person speaking has the power to make their words come true, like a judge, a referee, or a government leader.

That-Clauses

Remember that 'declared' works great with 'that'. For example: 'She declared that the project was finished.' This is a very common and professional structure.

Customs Context

If you are at an international border, 'declare' is the only correct word to use for reporting your goods. Don't say 'I want to tell you about my bags'.

Avoid Overuse

Don't use 'declared' for every dialogue tag in a story. Save it for the most important, life-changing, or firm statements to keep its impact strong.

Financial Reporting

In business writing, use 'declared' for dividends, profits, and bankruptcy. It shows you understand the formal language of the corporate world.

Stress the End

Focus on the 'CLARED' part of the word. The first syllable is very quick and quiet. This makes your pronunciation sound more natural.

Status Changes

Use 'declared' when a person's status changes officially, such as being 'declared fit', 'declared guilty', or 'declared the winner'.

Adjective Use

When using 'declared' as an adjective, place it right before the noun: 'a declared supporter', 'a declared atheist'. This is the standard pattern.

News Keywords

When you hear 'declared' on the news, get ready for an official announcement. It is a 'keyword' that tells you something important is happening.

Clear Declaration

Just remember: A declaration makes things CLEAR. If the statement doesn't make something clear and official, 'declared' might not be the right word.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'DE-CLARE-D' statement as making something 'DE-finitely CLEAR'. The word itself contains the word 'clear', which is exactly what a declaration does.

Visual Association

Imagine a judge hitting a gavel and shouting 'Declared!' or a person at an airport pointing to a suitcase and saying 'I declare this chocolate!'

Word Web

Official Public Clear Statement Customs Law Announcement Firm

Challenge

Try to use 'declared' in three different ways today: once for a personal opinion, once for an official rule, and once for a report.

Word Origin

The word 'declared' comes from the Latin word 'declarare', which means 'to make quite clear'. This is formed from the prefix 'de-' (meaning 'thoroughly') and 'clarare' (meaning 'to make bright or clear'). It entered the English language in the 14th century through Old French.

Original meaning: To explain, to make known, or to manifest clearly.

Indo-European (Italic > Romance > French > English).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'declared' to describe someone's identity (e.g., 'a declared atheist') as it can sometimes sound like you are labeling them in a way they might not prefer.

In the US, it is linked to July 4th and the founding of the country. In the UK, it is often linked to the formal procedures of Parliament.

The Declaration of Independence (1776) The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) Michael Scott from 'The Office' shouting 'I declare bankruptcy!'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Customs and Travel

Do you have anything to declare?
I have nothing to declare.
Declared value of goods.
Customs declaration form.

Law and Courts

Declared a mistrial.
Declared bankrupt.
Declared the law unconstitutional.
Declared a witness hostile.

Politics and News

Declared a state of emergency.
Declared a national holiday.
Declared war.
Declared the winner of the election.

Business and Finance

Declared a dividend.
Declared a profit.
Declared assets.
Declared income.

Sports

Declared the innings closed.
Declared the winner by knockout.
Declared fit to play.
Declared a forfeit.

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever had to declare something unusual at customs when traveling?"

"If you were the leader of your country, what is the first thing you would have declared as a law?"

"Do you think it is important for politicians to have all their assets declared publicly?"

"When was the last time you declared your firm opinion on a controversial topic?"

"In your favorite sport, how is the winner officially declared?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you declared your intentions to achieve a big goal. How did it feel to say it out loud?

Describe a historical event where a famous declaration changed the world. Why was it so powerful?

If you had to declare a 'state of emergency' in your own life to fix a problem, what would it be?

Write a story about a character who declared their love in a very public and embarrassing way.

Reflect on the importance of having 'declared' rules in a society versus unwritten ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically you can, but it sounds very dramatic and funny. Native speakers only use it this way if they are joking. For normal life, use 'said' or 'want'. 'Declared' is for big, important things.

Announced is like sharing news (e.g., 'I announced my party'). Declared is like making a rule or an official statement (e.g., 'The city declared a holiday'). Declared has more power.

It means you don't have any items that you need to pay tax on or that are illegal to bring into the country. You are 'declaring' your honesty to the customs officers.

No, it can also be an adjective. For example, a 'declared candidate' is someone who has officially said they are running for office. It describes their status.

In coding, you 'declare' a variable to tell the computer that the variable exists and what kind of data it will hold. It is like an official introduction for the code.

It is a legal status. When a court declares someone bankrupt, it means they officially cannot pay their debts, and the law will help manage their money and assets.

Yes, in a metaphorical way. You can say 'The sign declared the road closed.' It means the sign makes the information official and clear to everyone.

No. If you 'claim' something, people might not believe you. If an authority 'declares' something, it is usually accepted as the official truth.

It is when a company's leaders officially announce that they will pay a share of the profits to the people who own stock in the company.

Yes, usually. You need to declare *something*. You can't just say 'He declared.' You must say 'He declared his name' or 'He declared that he was leaving.'