are unfolding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are unfolding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe events or situations that are currently developing or becoming apparent over time. Example: "The details of the investigation are unfolding as new evidence comes to light."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Their stories are unfolding.

The New York Times - Sports

The changes are unfolding with remarkable speed.

The New York Times

Observers despair at the way events are unfolding.

The Guardian

Great fiscal, constitutional and attitudinal changes are unfolding around us.

The Guardian - Opinion

Similar stories — and worse — are unfolding throughout the country.

The New York Times

There is, for one thing, "the street," where the events of May 1968 are unfolding.

The New York Times

"Events are unfolding as we speak," said Thomas J. Pyden, a G.M. spokesman.

The New York Times

I am still affected by the events that are unfolding in the Arab world.

The New Yorker

New and more pluralist constitutional conversations are unfolding across these islands.

The Guardian - Opinion

Stephen is a strangely emotionless protagonist, even when horrors are unfolding.

The Guardian - Books

Beyond Times Square, other elements of the Mountain Dew campaign are unfolding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a complex or long-term scenario, use "are unfolding" to emphasize the ongoing nature of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "are unfolding" to describe situations that are already complete or unchanging. This phrase is most effective when highlighting the dynamic and developing nature of a situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are unfolding" functions as a verb phrase in the present continuous tense. It describes actions or events that are currently in progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and commonly used to indicate a process of development.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are unfolding" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that effectively conveys the sense of ongoing development and revelation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for describing events and situations that are currently in progress. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media, as demonstrated by the numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While versatile, it's important to reserve this phrase for truly dynamic situations, avoiding overuse in static contexts. Consider alternatives such as "are developing" or "are emerging" to achieve greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are developing

Focuses on the process of growth and change.

are evolving

Implies a gradual change over time, often towards something more complex.

are progressing

Emphasizes forward movement and advancement.

are materializing

Highlights the process of becoming real or concrete.

are emerging

Suggests something is coming into view or becoming known.

are transpiring

Indicates that events are taking place or occurring.

are coming to fruition

Suggests that something is reaching a point of completion or realization.

are taking shape

Focuses on the formation and structuring of something.

are becoming apparent

Stresses that something is becoming clear or obvious.

are playing out

Suggests a sequence of events is unfolding like a performance.

FAQs

How can I use "are unfolding" in a sentence?

Use "are unfolding" to describe events or situations that are currently in the process of developing or being revealed. For example, "The details of the investigation "are unfolding" as new evidence emerges."

What are some alternatives to "are unfolding"?

Alternatives to "are unfolding" include phrases like "are developing", "are evolving", or "are emerging", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "are unfolding" in formal writing?

Yes, "are unfolding" is suitable for formal writing. It is commonly used in news reports, academic papers, and business documents to describe ongoing events and processes. However, consider the specific context and choose the most precise wording.

What is the difference between "are unfolding" and "have unfolded"?

"Are unfolding" describes events that are currently in progress, while "have unfolded" describes events that have already taken place. For example, "The events "are unfolding" rapidly" means the events are happening now. "The events "have unfolded" as planned" means the events are completed.