as it unfolds

USAGE SUMMARY

"as it unfolds" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that is happening or will happen gradually over time. For example: The story of the mysterious figure's identity and purpose began to unfold as it unfolded.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is a performance that heats up as it unfolds, becoming electrifying in its final third.

Los Angeles Times

"Now listen as it unfolds".

The New Yorker

We are inventing a partnership as it unfolds.

The New York Times

We see it all as it unfolds, but remain powerless.

The New York Times

I'll keep you updated on this one as it unfolds.

The Guardian - Sport

Greengrass concentrates on the action as it unfolds.

The Guardian - Film

Faculty, in turn, can monitor each student's journey as it unfolds.

Harvard University

We will continue to give you updated information about this project as it unfolds.

Yale University

The audience will move all over Alcatraz with the actors, following Shakespeare's tragedy as it unfolds.

The New York Times

Even as it unfolds with a terrible sense of inevitability, "Fruitvale Station" is rarely predictable.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Instead of reiterating positions, Arnold's story becomes richer as it unfolds.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as it unfolds" to describe a situation or event that is developing gradually and organically, allowing the audience to witness the progression.

Common error

Avoid using "as it unfolds" when describing something that is already fully formed or static. It's best suited for dynamic processes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as it unfolds" functions as an adverbial clause of time, indicating that something is happening or being observed concurrently with the progression of an event or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

22%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as it unfolds" is a versatile phrase used to describe the gradual progression of events. It functions as an adverbial clause of time, often employed in neutral contexts, such as news reports and academic papers. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The phrase is most frequently found in "News & Media" and "Academia", making it a common way to convey real-time developments and encourage audience engagement as events progress. Remember to use it when you want to emphasize the dynamic nature of a situation, and avoid using it in static contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as it progresses

A more direct synonym, emphasizing the forward movement or development of something.

as it transpires

Replaces "unfolds" with "transpires", suggesting a gradual revelation of events or information.

as it evolves

Highlights the gradual change and development of something, rather than just its unfolding.

while it unfolds

Using "while" provides a slightly different temporal emphasis, focusing on simultaneous action.

as it materializes

Focuses on something becoming concrete or real over time, instead of just progressing.

as it plays out

Suggests a more dramatic and observable unfolding of events.

as it comes to light

Emphasizes the gradual revealing of information or facts.

as the situation develops

Specifically refers to a situation's gradual changes and advancements.

as it unravels

Implies a process of something coming apart or being revealed, often suggesting complexity.

as the story emerges

Implies that details are gradually being revealed like pieces of a puzzle.

FAQs

How can I use "as it unfolds" in a sentence?

Use "as it unfolds" to describe events or processes that gradually develop over time. For example, "We will monitor the situation "as it unfolds"" or "The plan will adapt "as it unfolds"".

What are some alternatives to "as it unfolds"?

Alternatives include phrases like "as it progresses", "as it develops", or "as it transpires", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "as it unfolds" or "as it unravels"?

The choice depends on the context. "As it unfolds" suggests a general progression, while "as it unravels" implies that something complex is being revealed or potentially falling apart.

Can "as it unfolds" be used to describe a plan or strategy?

Yes, ""as it unfolds"" can effectively describe how a plan or strategy is implemented and evolves over time. For instance, "The strategy will be refined "as it unfolds"".