Basic Details
Word: Unravel
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To untangle or separate the threads of something; to solve or explain something that is complex or mysterious.
Synonyms: Untangle, solve, decode, decipher, unwind
Antonyms: Tangle, complicate, confuse, entangle
Idioms and Phrases
- Unravel the mystery: To solve or explain something that was previously unknown or confusing. Example: "The detective worked hard to unravel the mystery behind the missing painting."
- Unravel at the seams: To begin to fall apart emotionally, structurally, or mentally. Example: "After losing her job and facing family issues, she started to unravel at the seams."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The scientist managed to unravel the complex formula after months of research.
Example 2: She tried to unravel the tangled necklace before putting it on.
Example 3: The plot of the novel slowly unravels to reveal a shocking truth.
Fun Fact
The word "unravel" is a combination of "un-" (meaning reverse) and "ravel" (meaning to tangle or entangle). Interestingly, "ravel" and "unravel" can sometimes mean the same thing-both implying separation or untangling in certain contexts.
Famous Quote
"Life is a mystery to be lived, not a problem to be unraveled." Sren Kierkegaard
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "unravel" mean?
a) To tie something tightly
b) To tangle something more
c) To untangle or solve something
d) To ignore a problem
Answer: c) To untangle or solve something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "unravel"?
a) Complicate
b) Decode
c) Confuse
d) Entangle
Answer: b) Decode
3. Which is an antonym of "unravel"?
a) Solve
b) Tangle
c) Decipher
d) Untwist
Answer: b) Tangle
4. Which sentence uses "unravel" correctly?
a) He tried to unravel the puzzle before bedtime.
b) She unravel her homework every day.
c) The unravel is very loud.
d) They unravel the lunch at school.
Answer: a) He tried to unravel the puzzle before bedtime.
5. What does the idiom "unravel at the seams" mean?
a) To fix something
b) To become stronger
c) To fall apart or break down
d) To sew something new
Answer: c) To fall apart or break down
