Translation guide
The English verb "unfold" has two main uses: a physical action of opening something folded, and a metaphorical sense of events or stories developing. Japanese uses different verbs for these meanings, and the physical sense requires careful choice depending on what is being unfolded.
unfold a map
the story unfolds
To open or spread out something that has been folded, such as paper, a letter, a map, clothing, or an umbrella.
unfold a map · unfold a letter · unfold a napkin · unfold an umbrella
The most common and versatile verb for spreading or opening out flat objects. It can be used for paper, maps, cloth, wings, etc.
Please unfold the map.
He unfolded the letter and began to read.
Often used for opening things that have a hinge or are folded in a specific way, like an umbrella, a folding fan, or a book. Can also mean 'to open' in a general sense.
Literally 'to smooth out the creases'. Used when you want to emphasize removing the fold lines, such as when flattening a crumpled paper.
To reveal or become clear gradually; to develop over time. Often used for narratives, situations, or plans.
the story unfolds · events unfolded quickly · the plan unfolded as expected
The standard verb for events, stories, or plots unfolding. It can be used both transitively and intransitively.
Let's see how the story unfolds.
Surprising events unfolded at the meeting.
Often used for dramatic or large-scale events unfolding before one's eyes. It has a nuance of something being spread out like a scroll.
Means 'to become clear' or 'to be revealed'. Suitable when the unfolding involves a mystery or hidden truth.
The truth gradually unfolded.
A phrase meaning 'as the story progresses/unfolds'. Useful for setting the context.
To straighten or extend limbs that were previously crossed or bent.
広げる (hirogeru) is used for spreading out flat things like paper, cloth, or maps. 開く (hiraku) is used for opening things that have a hinge or a fixed shape when opened, like umbrellas, fans, or books. For folding chairs or tables, 開く is more common. For a letter, 広げる is natural because you are spreading out the paper.
unfold a letter
unfold an umbrella
Do not use 広げる or 開く for stories or events. These would sound unnatural. Use 展開する or other context-appropriate verbs instead.
the story unfolds
傘を開く。
To unfold an umbrella.
He unfolded the folding fan.
I unfolded the paper (smoothed out the creases) and then scanned it.
A magnificent drama unfolded before our eyes.
As the story unfolds, the characters' secrets are revealed.