unfurl
/ʌn'fə:l/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb (transitive):
- To unroll, unfold, or spread out something that is furled, rolled, or folded.
- To open or display something that was previously closed or concealed.
Verb (intransitive):
- To become unrolled, unfolded, or spread out from a furled or closed state.
Usage
- The verb "unfurl" is used to describe the action of opening something that is rolled or folded, such as a flag, sail, or scroll. It often implies a deliberate or graceful opening.
- It can be used both transitively (with a direct object) and intransitively (without a direct object).
Examples
- Transitive use:
- The sailors unfurled the sails as the wind picked up.
- She carefully unfurled the ancient map on the table.
- Intransitive use:
- As the ceremony began, the flag unfurled in the breeze.
- The flower's petals unfurled in the morning sun.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: "Unfurl" can be used metaphorically to describe the revelation or development of abstract things.
- The plot of the novel unfurled slowly, revealing its secrets one by one.
- Over the decade, her career unfurled in unexpected and brilliant ways.
Variants and Related Words
- Furl (verb): The direct opposite, meaning to roll or fold up neatly and securely.
- After the race, the crew furled the sail.
- Unroll (verb): To open something that is rolled up. (A close synonym, but often less poetic than "unfurl").
- Unfold (verb): To open or spread out from a folded position. (Can be used more broadly than "unfurl").
Synonyms
- Unroll
- Unfold
- Open out
- Spread out
- Unwind
Antonyms
- Furl
- Roll up
- Fold
- Wrap
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To unfurl one's wings: A metaphorical phrase meaning to begin to use one's abilities fully or to embark on a new venture.
- After graduation, she was ready to unfurl her wings and start her own business.
Verb
- unroll, unfold, or spread out or be unrolled, unfolded, or spread out from a furled state
- unfurl a banner