Unfasten: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to opening or loosening something that is closed or secured, such as buttons, zippers, or seat belts.

• She unfastened her seat belt and got out of the car.
• I need to unfasten the buttons on my shirt before I take it off.

Ideal for situations where you are reversing an action or returning something to its previous state. Often used with knots, bindings, or settings.

• I had to undo the knot in my shoelaces because I tied them too tightly.
• She realized her mistake and quickly tried to undo her decision.

This word is suitable when letting go of something that is being held, constrained, or confined. It can also be used in broader scenarios like freeing someone from an obligation or making something available to the public.

• He released the bird from its cage.
• The company will release the new software version next month.

Best used when referring to detaching something that is hooked, clipped, or latched onto another object. This word often applies to clothing, bags, or equipment.

• He unhooked his coat from the hanger.
• Please unhook the trailer before we drive away.

Used when you need to open or release something that is fastened, often related to clothing, belts, or seatbelts.

• She unfastened her seatbelt as the plane came to a stop.
• He unfastened the buttons on his shirt.

Appropriate when you need to remove something from where it's attached, often without damaging it. This can be used in formal or technical settings.

• You can detach the keyboard from the tablet for easier use.
• The astronaut detached the panel to inspect the equipment.

Used when something is intentionally or unintentionally damaged or destroyed, implying a physical force applied to cause it to stop functioning or to come apart.

• He broke the vase while cleaning the house.
• Don't play with that toy too roughly or you might break it.

Used when you want to divide something into distinct parts, often implying a more permanent or complete disunion. This can have both physical and abstract meanings.

• The teacher asked the students to separate into groups.
• He separated the recyclables from the trash.