a synonym for unfold

[GandalfMB]

Hello,
Can I use "develop", "happen" or "play out" instead in this sentence: "We stood and watched the drama in front of us unfold."?

I personally don't think that "happen" would work here. What do you suggest? Does develop sound unnatural too?

 

[Wordsmyth]

Hi Gandalf,

I agree that "happen" doesn't work.

"Develop" keeps the meaning, but to me it sounds more 'technical'; "unfold" is more, well, dramatic (or perhaps poetic).

"Play out" would also fit, though I see that as putting more emphasis on the conclusion.

Ws

 

[GandalfMB]

Good morning Wordsmyth. I agree and the only reason I suggested "develop" is because nothing else came to mind. I am glad it keeps the meaning though. I have to admit I wasn't sure about "play out" for the reason you have pointed out.
Thank you and I am sorry if some of the suggestions are silly.

 

[sdgraham]

You don't really need anything.

"We stood and watched the drama in front of us ."?

 

[Wordsmyth]

I am sorry if some of the suggestions are silly

I didn't find them at all silly.

"We stood and watched the drama in front of us ."?

Well, if you really wanted to prune the sentence to a minimum, it could be "We stood and watched the drama". After all, it'd be hard to watch a drama that's behind you! But I like "unfold": it adds a sense of substance and movement.

Ws