Inklingo

How to Say "to unpack" in Spanish

English → Spanish

deshacer

des-ah-SEHRdesaˈθeɾ

verbA2
Use this word when you are emptying the contents of a suitcase, bag, or box, typically after traveling or moving.
A hand pulling a single thread to unravel a knitted scarf.

Examples

Por fin llegué a casa y deshice la maleta.

I finally got home and unpacked the suitcase.

Tengo que deshacer la maleta después del viaje.

I have to unpack the suitcase after the trip.

No puedo deshacer este nudo.

I can't undo this knot.

The 'Hacer' Connection

This word works exactly like 'hacer'. If you know 'yo hago', then you know 'yo deshago'. If you know 'él hizo', you know 'él deshizo'.

Watch the 'I' in the Past

Mistake: “Yo deshací.”

Correction: Say 'Yo deshice'. Like the word 'hacer', the past tense forms use an 'i' instead of an 'a'.

desenvolver

deh-sen-bol-BEHRdesenβolˈbeɾ

verbA2
Use this word when you are removing something from its packaging, such as unwrapping a gift or a new product.
Hands carefully peeling back bright blue wrapping paper from a square gift box.

Examples

Me gusta desenvolver los regalos de cumpleaños.

I like unwrapping birthday presents.

Me encanta desenvolver los regalos de Navidad.

I love unwrapping Christmas presents.

Tienes que desenvolver el paquete con cuidado.

You have to unwrap the package carefully.

Ella desenvuelve el caramelo lentamente.

She unwraps the candy slowly.

The Stem Change

This verb follows the 'o to ue' pattern. When you emphasize the root, the 'o' changes to 'ue' (e.g., desenvuelvo), except for 'nosotros' and 'vosotros' forms.

Irregular Past Form

The 'done' form (past participle) is irregular. Instead of 'desenvolvido', you must use 'desenvuelto'.

Using the wrong 'done' form

Mistake: “He desenvolvvido el regalo.”

Correction: He desenvuelto el regalo. This verb is an exception to the normal -ido rule.

Unpacking Gifts vs. Suitcases

The most common mistake is using 'desenvolver' for emptying a suitcase. Remember, 'desenvolver' is for removing wrapping or packaging, like a gift, while 'deshacer' is for emptying luggage.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.