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Unpack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unpack

[ŹŒnĖˆpƦk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

moving objects

To remove items from a container or package.

Synonyms

empty, unbox, unload.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unpack

Use when talking about removing items from a suitcase, box, or bag after a trip or shipment.

  • When we arrived at the hotel, we immediately began to unpack our bags
  • I need some help to unpack the moving boxes
empty

Use when referring to removing all contents from a container or making something void of its contents.

  • Please empty the trash can before it overflows
  • She emptied her glass before asking for a refill
unload

Use when taking items out of a vehicle, especially after transportation or delivery. It can also imply relieving oneself of a burden, often with a negative connotation.

  • The workers began to unload the truck early in the morning
  • He needed to unload some of his worries during our conversation
unbox

Use specifically when removing an item from its original packaging, typically for the first time.

  • I was so excited to unbox my new smartphone as soon as it arrived
  • The children gathered around to watch her unbox the new toy

Examples of usage

  • I need to unpack my suitcase after the trip.
  • She unpacked the boxes and started organizing the new house.
  • Let's unpack the groceries and put them away in the kitchen.
  • The movers will unpack the furniture once we arrive at the new house.
Context #2 | Verb

information

To analyze or explain in detail.

Synonyms

analyze, elaborate, explain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unpack

In a metaphorical sense, also used for breaking down complex ideas, problems, or concepts.

  • Let's unpack the implications of this decision.
  • He spent hours unpacking the themes in the novel.
analyze

Suitable for situations involving detailed examination or evaluation of data, texts, or problems.

  • The scientist analyzed the results of the experiment.
  • We need to analyze this report before making a decision.
explain

Perfect for clarifying or making something understandable to others.

  • Can you explain how this machine works?
  • The teacher explained the concept to the students.
elaborate

Used when adding more details or information to something that has been mentioned or explained.

  • Could you elaborate on your plan for the project?
  • She elaborated on the key points of her presentation.

Examples of usage

  • We need to unpack the data to understand the trends.
  • The professor unpacked the complex theory in a simple way for the students.
  • Let's unpack the implications of this decision before moving forward.
  • She unpacked the new policy during the meeting.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • The process of unpacking can be related to emotional processing, where individuals unpack their feelings about a situation over time.
  • Unpacking thoughts is a common strategy in therapy, helping individuals to break down complex emotions into manageable parts.

Education

  • In educational contexts, 'unpacking' often refers to breaking down complex concepts or topics into smaller, more understandable parts for better learning.
  • Teachers may use unpacking strategies in lesson plans to help students tackle difficult subjects by simplifying the content.

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, unpacking after a journey is a ritual that symbolizes the transition from travel mode to home life.
  • Unpacking is also common in the context of moving to a new home, representing a new beginning and settling into a space.

Technology

  • In digital contexts, 'unpacking' can refer to extracting files from a compressed format (like ZIP files) to access their contents.
  • Software development often involves 'unpacking' code, a process that helps developers understand how programs operate and identify any issues.

Origin of 'unpack'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated in the mid-19th century, combining 'un-' which means 'not' or 'reverse of,' with 'pack,' which refers to a bundle or package.
  • Before its current form, 'pack' was derived from Old French 'pac', meaning to bundle items for transport.

The word 'unpack' originated from the combination of 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'pack' which comes from the Middle English word 'pak', ultimately from the Dutch 'pak', meaning 'bundle'. The term has been used since the 14th century in the context of removing items from packages or containers.

See also: pack, package, packaging, packed, packer, packet, packing.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,081, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.