Translation guide
The English verb 'unravel' has two main uses: literally undoing threads or fabric, and figuratively solving mysteries or explaining complex situations. Japanese uses different verbs for each.
To physically pull apart threads, undo knitting, or cause fabric to come apart.
General verb for undoing knots, stitches, or tied things. Used for untying, unraveling knitting, or loosening.
I unraveled the sweater and turned it back into yarn.
Means to untie, solve, or undo. Can be used for unraveling threads, but more commonly for solving problems. When used for threads, it implies loosening or undoing.
It took time to unravel the tangled thread.
Intransitive verb meaning to become unraveled or frayed. Used when fabric comes apart on its own.
This shirt unravels easily.
To figure out a complicated situation, solve a puzzle, or clarify something confusing.
Formal verb meaning to clarify or elucidate. Often used for unraveling mysteries, scientific phenomena, or complex issues.
Researchers are trying to unravel the mystery.
Common verb for solving puzzles, riddles, or problems. Also used for untying. In figurative sense, it means to solve or figure out.
Literally 'untie a cord', used figuratively for unraveling a mystery or delving into a complex story. Somewhat literary.
To describe a plan, relationship, or system gradually failing or disintegrating.
Intransitive verb meaning to collapse or crumble. Used for plans, relationships, or systems falling apart.
His plan gradually unraveled.
Formal verb meaning to fail or go bankrupt. Used for plans, systems, or relationships that break down completely.
The negotiations unraveled.
ほどく is specifically for undoing knots, stitches, or knitting. 解く is broader and can mean to untie or solve. For fabric, ほどく is more natural.
Both can mean 'untie shoelaces', but ほどく is more common for physical untying.
When a plan or relationship unravels, do not use ほどく or 解く. Use 崩れる or 破綻する instead.
He unraveled a difficult puzzle.
事件の真相を紐解く。
Unravel the truth of the case.