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When words unwrap: "unfurl" vs. "unfold"!

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 12/10/2024, 05:38

English.me team member

Unfurl and unfold. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "unfurl" and "unfold" involve opening, spreading out, or revealing something that was previously closed or wrapped.

What is different?

The word "unfurl" is often used in the context of opening or spreading out something that can roll or was rolled, such as a flag or sail, and usually suggests a physical action. "Unfold" can be used both physically and metaphorically, often for paper, fabric, events, or stories, to mean spreading something out or revealing more information.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for unfurl) and unfold

Examples of usage

Unfurl

The sailor unfurled the sails as the wind picked up.
The flag was unfurled at the beginning of the ceremony.

Unfold

She unfolded the map to get a better view.
As the story unfolds, the truth is gradually revealed.

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