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General

unpack

What does unpack mean?

To break down a complex idea into its components to understand it better.

"Let's unpack why the launch underperformed."

Origin

Metaphor of unpacking a container; common in analysis-speak.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'unpack' mean in a meeting?
To break a complex idea down into its parts and examine them, so the group understands what's really going on. 'Let's unpack that' means let's dig into it.
Where does the phrase come from?
It's a metaphor from unpacking a box or container, applied to taking apart a dense idea to see what's inside.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.