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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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it's unfolding

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

It's unfolding right now," the study's lead author says.

It's unfolding here.

News & Media

The Guardian

It's unfolding right now," one scientist says.

It's unfolding pretty much in real time.

It's unfolding at work, when the boss isn't looking.

News & Media

The Guardian

As Ms. Rice recalled today, "Once the operation starts to unfold, it's unfolding.

News & Media

The New York Times
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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Together they show the Path, still in its infancy, as it is unfolding today.

This is President Obama's Rwanda moment, and it is unfolding now, in slow motion.

News & Media

The New York Times

It is unfolding today before our eyes".

News & Media

The New York Times

Nevertheless it is unfolding before our eyes.

It is unfolding today before our very eyes.

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In very formal academic writing, consider using the uncontracted "it is unfolding" for a more serious tone.

Common error

Do not use "it's unfolding" to describe a state that is already finished or static. The phrase inherently requires a sense of movement or a sequence of events that have not yet reached their conclusion.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

95%

Authority and reliability

4.9/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's unfolding" functions as a main clause consisting of a dummy or situational subject ("it"), a contracted auxiliary verb ("'s" for "is") and a present participle ("unfolding"). According to data from Ludwig, this structure creates a present continuous aspect, which is used to describe actions that are currently in progress or situations that are developing at the moment of speaking or writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Social Media

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it's unfolding" is an essential linguistic tool for writers who wish to capture the momentum of a live event. Through analysis of Ludwig AI data, it is clear that this phrase is most effective when describing complex situations—ranging from political scandals to environmental changes—where the full outcome is not yet visible. Its frequent appearance in authoritative outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian confirms its status as a sophisticated yet accessible way to convey development. While highly versatile, writers should remember to use the uncontracted form in strictly formal environments and ensure the context supports a sense of ongoing action.

FAQs

How do I use "it's unfolding" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe an ongoing event, such as "The story is shocking as "it's unfolding" before our eyes." Similar phrases include "it is playing out" or "it is developing".

What is the difference between "it's unfolding" and "it unfolds"?

"it's unfolding" uses the continuous aspect to emphasize that the action is currently in progress. In contrast, "it unfolds" is often used for general truths or habitual actions.

Is "it's unfolding" too informal for business reports?

While the contraction is common in news media, for formal business or academic reports, it is safer to use ""it is unfolding"" to maintain a professional tone.

What can I say instead of "it's unfolding"?

Depending on the context, you can use "it is taking place", "it is transpiring", or "it is emerging".

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: