desdobra-se

[dɛʃˈdɔbɾə-sə]

verb

unfolds, develops, unravels

1. Third person singular present tense of 'desdobrar' (reflexive). To open up, spread out, or expand something that was folded or compressed.

The story unfolds over several chapters.

A história desdobra-se ao longo de vários capítulos.

2. To develop or evolve gradually; to happen or occur in stages.

The situation develops as time passes.

A situação desdobra-se conforme o tempo passa.

3. To split into multiple parts or aspects; to branch out.

The investigation unfolds into multiple areas of inquiry.

A investigação desdobra-se em múltiplas áreas de pesquisa.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Regional Variations

General Brazilian

desdobra-se

Standard usage throughout Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

desdobra-se

Standard usage, may be used more colloquially in speech

São Paulo

desdobra-se

Standard usage, common in formal and informal contexts

Portugal

desdobra-se

Standard usage, equivalent form used in European Portuguese

desdobra-se em flores (unfolds like flowers - blooms beautifully)

desdobra-se diante dos olhos (unfolds before one's eyes)

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