unpack
/'ʌn'pæk/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb:
- To remove items from a container, suitcase, or package: The primary meaning is to take things out of the luggage, box, or other packaging they were transported or stored in.
- To analyze or explain something in detail: In a figurative sense, it means to examine a complex idea, argument, or text by separating and explaining its components.
Examples of Usage
- Literal meaning (removing from packing):
- We need to unpack our suitcases as soon as we arrive at the hotel.
- She carefully unpacked the fragile china from the box.
- Figurative meaning (analyzing in detail):
- The professor asked us to unpack the poem's central metaphor.
- Let's unpack that statement to understand its full implications.
Advanced Usage
- "to unpack an argument": to examine the premises and logic of an argument step by step.
- The philosopher's task is to unpack the argument to reveal its underlying assumptions.
- "to unpack a concept": to explore the various meanings and aspects of a complex idea.
- The first chapter of the book unpacks the concept of justice.
Variants and Related Words
- Unpacker (n): A person or tool that unpacks things.
- He worked as an unpacker in a warehouse.
- Unpacking (n): The process or act of unpacking.
- The unpacking of the shipment took all afternoon.
Synonyms
- Unload: To remove a load from (a vehicle, container, etc.).
- Empty: To remove the contents of something.
- Disassemble: To take something apart (often for complex items being unpacked).
- Analyze/Deconstruct: To examine something methodically (for the figurative sense).
Related Phrasal Verbs
(Note: "Unpack" is not commonly used with particles to form distinct phrasal verbs. Its meaning is generally contained within the single word.)
Related Idioms
- "To unpack one's bags": To settle into a new place, implying a more permanent stay.
- After years of traveling, he's finally ready to unpack his bags and stay put.
Verb
- remove from its packing
- unpack the presents