to undo the knot or bow in something, to free someone or something from being tied up or fastened

untie the knot, untie someone's hands, untie one's tongue

Formal and Informal Expressions of untie

In different contexts, you can replace 'untie' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'unfasten, unbind' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'undo, let loose' is a commonplace synonym.

untie: Explore its Definition & Usage

untie Definition

1to undo the knot or bow in something
2to free someone or something from being tied up or fastened

Using untie: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "untie" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
Can you help me untie this knot?
Example
He quickly untied the rope and set the boat adrift.
Example
She untied the ribbon and opened the box.
Example
The hostages were finally untied by their captors.

untie Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for untie

Antonyms for untie

Phrases with untie

untie the knot
to end a marriage or romantic relationship
Example
After years of fighting, they finally decided to untie the knot.
untie someone's hands
to allow someone to act freely or without restrictions
Example
The new policy will untie the hands of local businesses, allowing them to expand and grow.
untie one's tongue
to become able to speak freely and confidently after being nervous or shy
Example
After a few drinks, he finally untied his tongue and started telling jokes and stories.

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Summary: untie in Brief

The verb 'untie' [ʌnˈtaɪ] means to undo a knot or bow, or to free someone or something from being tied up or fastened. It can be used literally, as in 'Can you help me untie this knot?' or figuratively, as in 'The new policy will untie the hands of local businesses.' 'Untie' also appears in phrases like 'untie the knot,' meaning to end a marriage or relationship, and 'untie one's tongue,' meaning to become able to speak freely and confidently.