What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unsolve
Example
The case remains unsolved after years of investigation. [unsolved: adjective]
Example
We are still trying to unsolve the mystery of the missing keys. [unsolve: verb]
unravel
Example
The detective worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery and find the culprit. [unravel: verb]
Example
As we dug deeper, the plot began to unravel and the truth was revealed. [unravel: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unravel is more commonly used than unsolve in everyday language. Unravel is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unsolve is less common and may sound awkward or unfamiliar in some situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unsolve and unravel?
Both unsolve and unravel are relatively formal words and may not be used in casual conversation. However, unravel is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while unsolve is less common and may be restricted to more formal settings.