Unfasten: meaning, definitions and examples
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unfasten
[ʌnˈfɑːs(ə)n ]
Definitions
clothing
To unfasten means to undo or release a fastening or attachment, such as a button, buckle, or zipper.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unfasten |
Use this word when referring to opening or loosening something that is closed or secured, such as buttons, zippers, or seat belts.
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| undo |
Ideal for situations where you are reversing an action or returning something to its previous state. Often used with knots, bindings, or settings.
|
| release |
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.
|
| unhook |
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.
|
Examples of usage
- I need to unfasten my belt after a big meal.
- She quickly unfastened the buttons of her coat.
- The child struggled to unfasten the knot in his shoelaces.
relationship
To unfasten can also mean to detach or break a connection or bond, often emotionally.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unfasten |
Used when you need to open or release something that is fastened, often related to clothing, belts, or seatbelts.
|
| detach |
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.
|
| break |
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.
|
| separate |
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.
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Examples of usage
- It's hard to unfasten yourself from someone you've loved for so long.
- She decided to unfasten herself from the toxic relationship.
- He needed to unfasten his feelings towards his ex.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word originates from the prefix 'un-', which means 'not' or 'the opposite of', and the word 'fasten', which means to secure or attach.
- The combination of these parts literally translates to 'to not fasten' or 'to remove a fastening action'.
Everyday Use
- Common examples include unfastening a belt, unbuttoning a shirt, or untying shoelaces.
- In the context of safety, 'unfasten' is often used when discussing seatbelts in cars – crucial for passenger safety.
Cultural References
- In fashion, unfastening can be a dramatic moment in a movie or show, often symbolizing freedom or change.
- Songs and poems may use 'unfasten' metaphorically to describe emotional release or letting go of burdens.
Psychology
- The act of unfastening can represent a sense of relief, as it often releases tension, similar to removing pressure in stressful situations.
- In therapy, discussing how and when to 'unfasten' emotional ties can be a step towards personal growth.
Technology
- In engineering, to unfasten usually refers to disassembling or repairing objects, highlighting the importance of ease of maintenance.
- Modern speaker systems may have unfastening mechanisms for easy transportation and assembly, showing its functional side.
Translations
Translations of the word "unfasten" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desapertar
- desabotoar
- desatar
🇮🇳 खोलना
🇩🇪 lösen
- aufmachen
- abnehmen
🇮🇩 melepaskan
🇺🇦 розстебнути
- відкрити
- відчепити
🇵🇱 rozpiąć
🇯🇵 外す (hazusu)
🇫🇷 défaire
- détacher
- desserrer
🇪🇸 desabrochar
- desatar
- aflojar
🇹🇷 çözmek
- açmak
- gevşetmek
🇰🇷 풀다 (pulda)
🇸🇦 يفك (yafukk)
🇨🇿 rozepnout
🇸🇰 rozopnúť
🇨🇳 解开 (jiěkāi)
🇸🇮 odpeti
🇮🇸 losna
- losa
- opna
🇰🇿 шешу
🇬🇪 გახსნა (gaxsna)
🇦🇿 açmaq
🇲🇽 desabrochar
- desatar
- aflojar