Reading Theme:
Unveil: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：reveal for the first time (unveil)
unveil
/ʌnˈveɪl/
v.
To show or announce something to the public for the first time.
reveal for the first time
➕
/rɪˈviːl fɔr ðə fɜːrst taɪm/
v.
To formally introduce or launch a new product, idea, or plan to the public.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From prefix 'un-' (reverse action) + 'veil' (a covering). Literally 'to remove a veil'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think UN-VEIL: you take the VEIL OFF (UN-) to show what was hidden.
📖 Example
The tech company will unveil its latest smartphone at the big event next week.
To introduce its new smartphone publicly for the first time at the event.
🔗 Collocations
unveil a plan – to publicly present a new strategy or proposal
unveil to the public – to make something known or visible for the first time to everyone
unveil a new model – to launch or introduce a new version of a product
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
📖 Cultural Story
From Old French 'desveler', itself from Latin 'dis-' (apart) + 'velum' (veil, covering). Historically tied to the act of revealing something hidden, like a religious icon or a new monument.
Meaning 2：remove a covering (unveil)
unveil
/ʌnˈveɪl/
v.
To remove a covering like a cloth from something, so people can see it.
remove a covering
➕
/rɪˈmuːv ə ˈkʌvərɪŋ/
v.
To physically remove a cloth or other covering from an object, such as a statue or plaque, in a ceremonial act.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The mayor was invited to unveil the new statue in the city park during the ceremony.
The mayor's role was to pull off the cloth covering the statue.
🔗 Collocations
unveil a monument – to ceremonially reveal a statue or memorial by removing its cover
unveil a plaque – to remove the cover from a commemorative plate or sign
unveil a portrait – to show a newly painted picture by taking off its protective covering
🔄 Synonyms
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