UNTANGLE Synonyms: 58 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'untangle' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of untangle are disembarrass , disencumber , disentangle , and extricate . While all these words mean "to free from what binds or holds back," disentangle and untangle suggest painstaking separation of a thing from other things. // disentangling fact from fiction // untangle a web of deceit

Q: When might 'disembarrass' be a better fit than 'untangle'?

The meanings of disembarrass and untangle largely overlap; however, disembarrass suggests a release from something that impedes or hinders. // disembarrassed herself of her advisers

Q: When can 'disencumber' be used instead of 'untangle'?

The synonyms disencumber and untangle are sometimes interchangeable, but disencumber implies a release from something that clogs or weighs down. // an article disencumbered of jargon

Q: When is it sensible to use 'extricate' instead of 'untangle'?

The words extricate and untangle are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, extricate implies the use of care or ingenuity in freeing from a difficult position or situation. // extricated himself from financial difficulties

untangle

verb

ˌən-ˈtaŋ-gəl

Definition of untangle next

as in to unravel

to separate the various strands of gently untangled the baby's hair

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to disentangle

to set free from entanglement or difficulty I was finally able to untangle myself from my credit problems

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the verb untangle differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of untangle are disembarrass, disencumber, disentangle, and extricate. While all these words mean "to free from what binds or holds back," disentangle and untangle suggest painstaking separation of a thing from other things.

disentangling fact from fiction

untangle a web of deceit

When might disembarrass be a better fit than untangle?

The meanings of disembarrass and untangle largely overlap; however, disembarrass suggests a release from something that impedes or hinders.

disembarrassed herself of her advisers

When can disencumber be used instead of untangle?

The synonyms disencumber and untangle are sometimes interchangeable, but disencumber implies a release from something that clogs or weighs down.

an article disencumbered of jargon

When is it sensible to use extricate instead of untangle?

The words extricate and untangle are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, extricate implies the use of care or ingenuity in freeing from a difficult position or situation.

extricated himself from financial difficulties

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of untangle The move could be the first step for WBD to untangle its cable business from the company to allow for some kind of future deal. —

Tim Baysinger, Axios, 12 Dec. 2024 Twin studies are powerful tools for untangling the roles that genetics and environment play in various traits, behaviors and conditions. —

New Atlas, 9 Dec. 2024 If the decedent’s financial affairs were complex, using a fiscal year can give the executor breathing room to untangle accounts, close bank statements, and prepare accurate financial records. —

Ashley Case, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024 More From the Los Angeles Times California A rescue crew tried to untangle a humpback in Newport Beach. —

Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for untangle

Recent Examples of Synonyms for untangle

Verb

But the underdog who went on to win the presidency after unseating a first-term president would later find himself in a similar situation, after numerous crises unraveled his administration and hammered his popularity among the American people.

Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 29 Dec. 2024
However, Meredith’s attempt to fit in with the Stones causes numerous challenges, leading to humorous and touching moments as family dynamics unravel.

JOHN DEALBREUIN Wealth of Geeks, Boston Herald, 26 Dec. 2024