unclog
Definition
Verb: 1. To become or cause to become unobstructed; to clear a blockage from something, typically a pipe, drain, or passage. - This describes the action of removing an obstruction that is preventing the normal flow of a liquid or substance, or the state of such an obstruction being removed.
Usage
The verb "unclog" is transitive and is used with a direct object (the thing that is blocked). It describes the process of making something that is clogged open and functional again.
- Basic Pattern: to unclog + [object]
- It is often used in the context of plumbing, drains, arteries, or any narrow passage.
Examples
- (intransitive use, meaning "became unobstructed")
Advanced Usage
- "to unclog itself": Used when a blockage clears without direct human intervention, often through the use of a chemical or natural process.
- After sitting with the cleaner overnight, the pipe unclogged itself.
Variants and Related Words
- Clog (verb): To block or become blocked.
- Hair and soap can clog the shower drain.
- Unclogged (adjective): Describing the state of being free from blockages.
- Now that the pipe is unclogged, the water flows smoothly.
- Unclogging (gerund/noun): The act or process of clearing a blockage.
- Unclogging the gutter was a messy job.
Synonyms
- Clear: To remove obstacles or blockages.
- Unblock: To remove a blockage from.
- Open up: To make a passage clear or accessible.
- Free: To release from an obstruction.
Antonyms
- Clog: To block or obstruct.
- Block: To stop movement through.
- Obstruct: To be in the way of.
Related Phrasal Verbs/Idioms
(Note: "Unclog" itself is not commonly used in phrasal verbs or idioms. Its meaning is direct and literal.)
Verb
-
become or cause to become unobstructed
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The chemical that we poured down the drain unclogged it
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