Word
unleash
Phoneticsun·leash, stress on the second syllable
US/ənˈɫiʃ/
UK/ʌnlˈiːʃ/
Definitions
01to release a powerful force
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. to let a strong force or feeling happen suddenly, often with a big effect.
v. to release a powerful or destructive force, emotion, or set of events that was previously controlled or suppressed.
“The storm unleashed heavy rain and strong winds across the coast.”
“The sudden change in government policy unleashed a wave of public protest that caught the administration completely off guard.”
02to free from a leash
B1 · Intermediate
v. to take a dog or other animal off its lead so it can run free.
v. to remove a leash from an animal, typically a dog, allowing it to move without physical restraint.
“Once they reached the open field, she unleashed her dog so he could run.”
“The hiker unleashed his golden retriever at the trailhead, allowing the animal to explore the undergrowth ahead of the group.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, often an abstract noun like 'potential', 'fury', or 'creativity'.
Real-World Examples
“Hurricane Lowell, a major Category 3 storm in the Pacific Ocean, has crept closer to the Hawaiian islands with forecasters warning the weather systems could unleash tornadoes on the islands of Kauai and Niihau.” “In June, it was the turn of the Halifax bank to unleash a social media storm.” Etymology
From un- + leash.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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