unpack — take things out of boxes
phrasal verbB1IELTS 4+neutralcore
To take things out of boxes, bags or cases and put them where they belong, especially after moving in.
Pattern: unpack (the boxes/your things)
In use
- We still have to unpack all the kitchen boxes before we can cook.moving into a new flat
- A: Have you settled in yet?
B: Almost — I just need to unpack the last few boxes.a friend asking after a move
Common mistake
✗ I need to unpacking my boxes.
✓ I need to unpack my boxes.
After 'need to' use the base verb 'unpack', not 'unpacking'.
Don't confuse it
'Unpack' = take things out; 'settle in' = the whole process of getting comfortable in a new place.