Unpack: meaning, definitions and examples

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unpack

[ʌnˈpæk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

moving objects

To remove items from a container or package.

Synonyms

empty, unbox, unload.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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?

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "unpack" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desempacotar

🇮🇳 अनपैक करना

🇩🇪 auspacken

🇮🇩 membongkar

🇺🇦 розпаковувати

🇵🇱 rozpakować

🇯🇵 開封する (kaifū suru)

🇫🇷 déballer

🇪🇸 desempaquetar

🇹🇷 paketi açmak

🇰🇷 풀다 (pulda)

🇸🇦 فك التغليف

🇨🇿 rozbalit

🇸🇰 rozbaliť

🇨🇳 解压 (jiě yā)

🇸🇮 razpakirati

🇮🇸 pakka upp

🇰🇿 орамалын ашу

🇬🇪 გახსნა (gakhsna)

🇦🇿 paketi açmaq

🇲🇽 desempaquetar

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.

...
25078 rescheduling
25079 sprinted
25080 misgiving
25081 unpack
25082 boastful
25083 biofilm
25084 irretrievably
...