to unleash

USAGE SUMMARY

'to unleash' is a correct and usable term in written English.
You can use it to refer to the act of setting free, unleashing a powerful force, or allowing something to happen. For example: "The new law intends to unleash an economic boom in the region".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I get to unleash my inner caveman.

Independent

Fine through ball to unleash Pilar.

Independent

We need to unleash millions of entrepreneurs.

The New York Times

Ms. Quinn is known to unleash anger easily.

The New York Times

The bell sounds to unleash the fighters.

The New York Times

It's time to unleash some masculini-tea.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Hackman is determined to unleash hell.

The Guardian - Film

8.16pm: It's time to unleash the talent!

The Guardian

She was able to unleash them.

The New Yorker

This time it held on to unleash those glorious celebrations.

The New York Times - Sports

The Kurds threaten to unleash mass protests of their own.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to unleash" when you want to emphasize the act of releasing something powerful or previously restrained. It adds a sense of drama or intensity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to unleash" when a simpler word like "release" or "begin" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound melodramatic, especially in contexts that don't warrant such intensity.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to unleash" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used as part of a larger verb construction. It indicates the action of releasing or setting something free, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Social Media

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to unleash" serves as a powerful verb phrase indicating the act of releasing something potent or previously restrained. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. With a high frequency in news and media, this phrase adds intensity and anticipation to writing. While versatile, it's important not to overuse it in contexts that don't warrant such forcefulness. Alternatives like "release", "trigger", or "activate" may be more appropriate in certain situations. As demonstrated by the multiple examples, "to unleash" is most effective when describing the act of setting free powerful forces or potential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to unleash the power

Emphasizes the release of a potent or influential force.

to unleash the potential

Specifically refers to unlocking hidden abilities or capabilities.

to unleash the fury

Highlights a strong, uncontrolled anger that has been released.

to let loose

Suggests a release of control, potentially leading to chaotic or unpredictable results.

to set free

Focuses on liberation from confinement or restraint, often implying a positive outcome.

to set in motion

Highlights the beginning of a process or series of events.

to trigger

Implies a cause-and-effect relationship, where something initiates a reaction.

to release

A more general term for allowing something to escape or become available.

to activate

Focuses on making something operational or functional.

to spark

Suggests initiating something, often with the implication of excitement or energy.

FAQs

How can I use "to unleash" in a sentence?

The phrase "to unleash" is typically used to describe the act of releasing or setting free something powerful or previously held back. For instance, "The company plans to "to unleash" a new marketing campaign next quarter" or "The government hopes to "to unleash" the country's economic potential with these reforms".

What are some alternatives to "to unleash"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "to release", "to trigger", "to activate", or "to set free".

Is it correct to say "unleash the potential"?

Yes, it is perfectly correct and a common usage. The phrase "unleash the potential" refers to the act of unlocking or enabling someone's or something's hidden abilities or capabilities.

What is the difference between "to unleash" and "to release"?

"To release" is a more general term that simply means to allow something to escape or become available. "To unleash" implies a more forceful or dramatic release, often of something that has been restrained or has a lot of power. Therefore, use "to release" in neutral contexts and "to unleash" when you want to emphasize the power or impact of the release.