WordGarden.iounleash
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnlˈiːʃ/
US
- /ənˈliʃ/
Meanings
Verb
to let a strong force, feeling, ability, or process break out or operate fully
to let a dog or other animal off a leash or release it from restraint
Beyond the definition
To unleash something is to set it free, often in a powerful or dramatic way. You might unleash a dog, letting out all its pent-up energy and excitement. It can also mean to suddenly bring out something strong, like unleashing your creativity on a new project, or a company unleashing a bold new product. Think of a storm unleashing its fury upon the land; it's about releasing something that was held back.
The image behind "unleash" is often one of restraint being removed. Something powerful has been contained, and now it's free to act. It isn't just letting go; there's a sense of force or intensity involved. You wouldn't unleash a gentle breeze; you'd unleash a hurricane.
The word "unleash" evokes the image of something powerful being set free from confinement, often with significant impact. Originally referring to the act of releasing an animal from its leash, especially hounds used for hunting, it has broadened to include releasing anything that has been held back or restrained. For example: "The politician unleashed a scathing attack on his opponent," meaning they delivered a forceful and critical speech.
"Unleash" isn't simply about allowing something to happen; it implies an active release, often with a sense of energy or force. A company might "unleash" a new marketing campaign, suggesting a bold and impactful launch. Or you might say someone "unleashed their anger," meaning they expressed it suddenly and intensely.
Figuratively, we can unleash things like creativity, potential, or even emotions. "She finally unleashed her artistic talent after years of self-doubt" suggests she began to express herself fully and powerfully. It's about removing barriers and allowing something inherent to emerge with full force.
The word carries a dramatic weight; it's rarely used for trivial matters. It speaks to the release of pent-up power, energy, or emotion. So when you "unleash" something, prepare for impact; you're letting loose a force that was previously contained.
Examples
- 1
Animal release
At the park, she unleashed the dog and let it run across the field.
- 2
Public criticism
The report unleashed a wave of criticism against the company.
- 3
Public panic
One false rumor can unleash panic in a small town.
- 4
Creative expression
The new workshop gives students space to unleash their creativity.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Soccer shot
From outside the box, he unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner.
- Phraseunleash a shot
kick or hit the ball very hard
- 6
Election ads
The campaign is expected to unleash a flood of ads on undecided voters next month.
- Patternunleash X on someone
suddenly direct a lot of X at them
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- unleashverb
Forms
- unleashedpast tenseverb
- unleashing-ing formverb
- unleashesverb