What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
untie
Example
Can you untie this knot for me? [untie: verb]
Example
I need to untie the rope from the tree. [untie: verb]
unravel
Example
She spent hours trying to unravel the tangled yarn. [unravel: verb]
Example
The detective worked hard to unravel the mystery of the missing jewels. [unravel: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Untie is more commonly used than unravel in everyday language, as it is a simple and straightforward action that can be used in various contexts. Unravel is less common and is typically used in formal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between untie and unravel?
Unravel is more formal than untie, as it is often used in academic or professional settings to describe the process of solving complex problems or mysteries. Untie, on the other hand, is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
