Unravel: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used when talking about solving or understanding complex problems, mysteries, or situations.

• The detective is working to unravel the mystery of the missing jewels.
• Scientists are trying to unravel the complexities of the human brain.

Commonly used for physical objects that are tangled, but can also be used metaphorically for complicated situations or relationships.

• She took hours to untangle the knots in the fishing line.
• The lawyer helped untangle the legal complexities of the contract.

Primarily used to describe the process of relaxing or removing tension, often after a stressful situation or day.

• After a long day at work, he likes to unwind by watching TV.
• She finds that a warm bath helps her to unwind and relax.

Often used when discussing the process of finding a solution to a problem or dispute.

• The team is working hard to resolve the issue with the software.
• They needed to resolve their differences before moving forward.

Best used when trying to make something clear and easy to understand, often used in conversations or explanations.

• Can you clarify your point? I'm not sure I understand.
• She asked the teacher to clarify the assignment instructions.

Used to describe the process of solving or understanding something complex or complicated. Often used in reference to mysteries, problems, or complex situations.

• The detective worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery of the missing jewels.
• Scientists are trying to unravel the secrets of the human genome.

Used to describe a twisted mass of something, such as hair or cables. It can also refer to situations that are complicated and difficult to separate or resolve.

• My headphones are always in a tangle when I take them out of my bag.
• The legal dispute became a tangle of conflicting claims.

Describes a situation that is very untidy, chaotic, or problematic. It is often used negatively to highlight disorganization or a lack of control.

• After the party, the room was a complete mess.
• The financial crisis left the company in a mess.

Refers to a tangle or cluster that is physically tied, often with rope or string. It can also metaphorically describe a difficult problem.

• She tried to untie the knot in the shoelace.
• The negotiation reached a knot that neither side could untangle.

Describes a state of being unclear, mixed-up, or uncertain. Appropriate for situations where there is a lack of clarity or when people do not understand what is happening.

• There was a lot of confusion during the evacuation drill.
• The new policy caused confusion among the employees.