is unfolding

USAGE SUMMARY

"is unfolding" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means that something is currently happening or developing in a gradual way. Example: The situation in the country is unfolding day by day, with new developments and challenges emerging.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A revolution is unfolding.

The Times

The rest is unfolding as you read.

The Guardian

"The tragedy is unfolding today.

University of California, Berkeley

A dastardly plot is unfolding.

The Guardian - Music

It is unfolding today before our eyes".

The New York Times

A related situation is unfolding in Massachusetts.

The New York Times

Speculation is unfolding at a rapid pace.

The Guardian

A riches-to-rags drama is unfolding.

The Guardian - Books

What is unfolding in Gaza is similar.

The New York Times

A global tragedy is unfolding in Tasmania.

The Guardian

Meanwhile, a film career is unfolding.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is unfolding" to describe events that are gradually developing or revealing themselves over time, particularly when a sense of anticipation or discovery is present.

Common error

Avoid using "is unfolding" for simple, everyday events. It's best suited for situations with a sense of complexity, drama, or gradual revelation. For example, avoid saying 'The meeting is unfolding,' unless the meeting has unexpected developments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is unfolding" functions as the present continuous tense of the verb "unfold". It's used to describe an ongoing process or situation that is gradually developing or being revealed. Ludwig AI confirms it is a commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is unfolding" is a versatile phrase used to describe situations that are gradually developing or being revealed. Ludwig AI validates it as a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, especially within News & Media and Academia. While synonymous with phrases like "is developing" and "is evolving", "is unfolding" carries a distinct sense of gradual revelation and anticipation. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended nuance and formality, avoiding overuse in overly simplistic scenarios. Remember, as various events and stories continue to "is unfolding", understanding the appropriate usage is critical for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is developing

This alternative uses a more general term for progress, focusing on gradual advancement.

is transpiring

This suggests that something is happening or taking place, often with a sense of drama.

is evolving

Highlights a gradual change or transformation over time.

is materializing

Focuses on something becoming real or visible from a less concrete state.

is emerging

Implies something is coming into view or becoming known.

is progressing

This emphasizes a forward movement or advancement.

is taking place

This is a more neutral way of saying something is happening.

is coming to pass

This implies something is happening as predicted or expected.

is shaping up

This suggests something is developing in a promising or specific way.

is coming about

Similar to 'taking place' but can also suggest a cause or reason for the event.

FAQs

How do I use "is unfolding" in a sentence?

Use "is unfolding" to describe a situation or event that is gradually developing or being revealed. For instance, "The truth "is unfolding" as more evidence comes to light".

What are some alternatives to "is unfolding"?

Alternatives include "is developing", "is evolving", or "is progressing". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "is unfolding" or "unfolds"?

Both can be correct, but they have different meanings. "Is unfolding" (present continuous) describes something happening now and gradually revealing itself. "Unfolds" (simple present) describes a habitual action or a general truth. For example, "The flower unfolds in the spring".

What's the difference between "is unfolding" and "is happening"?

"Is unfolding" suggests a gradual, revelatory process, while "is happening" is a more general term for an event taking place. "The mystery "is unfolding"" implies a gradual reveal, whereas "The event "is happening" now" simply states it's occurring.