unclasp
/'ʌn'klɑ:sp/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb: - To release or open something that is fastened or held by a clasp or a tight grip. It specifically refers to the action of undoing a clasp or letting go of something held firmly.
Usage
The verb "unclasp" describes the deliberate action of opening a fastening or loosening a hold. It is often used with objects that have a clasp mechanism (like jewelry, bags, or hands that are tightly held together). It implies a reversal of the action "to clasp."
Examples
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: While primarily physical, it can be used figuratively to describe releasing an emotional or metaphorical grip.
- After years of guilt, she finally unclasped her heart from the past.
- "To unclasp oneself from": To detach or free oneself from a person, situation, or emotion.
- He needed to unclasp himself from the burdens of leadership.
Variants and Related Words
- Clasp (verb): To fasten or hold tightly. (The direct opposite action).
- Unfasten (verb): A more general synonym for opening any fastening.
- Unhook (verb): To release from a hook, similar in specific mechanism.
Synonyms
- Unfasten
- Undo
- Unlock (when referring to a clasp-like mechanism)
- Release (from a grip)
Antonyms
- Clasp
- Fasten
- Secure
- Grip
Phrasal Verbs
(No common phrasal verbs are formed directly with "unclasp". The word itself is a specific verb.)
Related Idioms
(There are no common idioms that centrally feature the word "unclasp.")
Verb
- release from a clasp
- She clasped and unclasped her hands