What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unbuckle
Example
He unbuckled his belt and let out a sigh of relief. [unbuckled: past tense]
Example
The flight attendant instructed us to unbuckle our seatbelts and prepare for landing. [unbuckle: verb]
unfasten
Example
She unfastened her necklace and set it on the dresser. [unfastened: past tense]
Example
Can you help me unfasten this jar lid? It's stuck. [unfasten: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unfasten is more commonly used than unbuckle in everyday language. Unfasten is a more general term that can be applied to a wider range of situations, while unbuckle is more specific and often used in the context of safety restraints or equipment.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unbuckle and unfasten?
Both unbuckle and unfasten are relatively informal words that can be used in casual conversation or writing. Neither word is particularly formal or informal in tone.