# unfolding

/ənˈfoʊɫdɪŋ/ (US) · /ʌnfˈəʊldɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unfolding
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the way a story or a series of events happens over time. You use it to describe how a situation develops step by step.

For teachers: the process of a situation or narrative developing and becoming clearer as time passes.

## Examples

- The unfolding of the story kept everyone interested.
- Journalists across the country provided live updates on the unfolding of the political crisis as new evidence emerged.
- The slow unfolding of the mystery allows the author to build tension without relying on cheap shocks or sudden plot twists.

## Usage notes

- Often used with 'of' to describe the development of a specific event or narrative.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.