What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unravel
Example
She unraveled the tangled yarn with patience and care. [unraveled: past tense]
Example
The detective worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery surrounding the crime. [unravel: verb]
solve
Example
I need to solve this math problem before the deadline. [solve: verb]
Example
The mediator helped the two parties solve their differences and reach a compromise. [solve: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Solve is more commonly used than unravel in everyday language. Solve is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unravel is less common and refers to specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unravel and solve?
Both unravel and solve can be used in formal and informal contexts, but solve is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, making it more suitable for formal situations.
