unlace

/ʌnˈleɪs/ (bre, ipa) · /ʌnˈleɪs/ (ame, ipa) · /ˌən-ˈlās How to pronounce unlace (audio)/ (ame, mw)

unlace — verb

  • unlacepresent simple I / you / we / they
  • unlaceshe / she / it
  • unlacedpast simple
  • unlacing-ing form

1. to loosen and open something by undoing the laces that hold it together.

1.動詞及物C1
釋義

to loosen and open something by undoing the laces that hold it together.

例句

Noor sat on the step to unlace her muddy hiking boots.

unlace + boots (common footwear object)

Before bed, Pim always unlaced his work shoes by the door.

past tense / regular routine with shoes

同義詞
  • untie

    broader and more common; untie can mean opening a single knot

  • loosen

    less specific; it does not necessarily mean undoing laces

  • unfasten

    formal and very broad; it covers buttons, zips, and clips too

反義詞
  • lace up

    specific opposite for shoes or clothing with laces

  • tighten

    broader opposite meaning to make the laces firmer

文法句型

unlace + shoes/boots/skates

unlace the back of + dress/corset

用法筆記

The object is usually shoes, boots, skates, or clothing fastened with laces. Distinguish from 'untie' — 'unlace' often suggests loosening or pulling out the lace along several holes, not only opening one knot.

常見錯誤

❌Please unlace your belt before dinner.
✅Please undo your belt before dinner.
💡'unlace' is used for things fastened with laces, not buckles or plain straps.