The difference between Expand and Unfold

When used as verbs, expand means to change (something) from a smaller form and/or size to a larger one, whereas unfold means to undo a folding.

Unfold is also noun with the meaning: in functional programming, a kind of higher-order function that is the opposite of a fold.

check bellow for the other definitions of Expand and Unfold

  1. Expand as a verb (transitive):

    To change (something) from a smaller form and/or size to a larger one; to spread out or lay open.

    Examples:

    "You can expand this compact umbrella to cover a large table."

  2. Expand as a verb (transitive):

    To increase the extent, number, volume or scope of (something).

    Examples:

    "A flower expands its leaves."

  3. Expand as a verb (transitive):

    To express (something) at length and/or in detail.

  4. Expand as a verb (transitive, algebra):

    To rewrite (an expression) as a longer, yet equivalent sum of terms.

    Examples:

    "Use the binomial theorem to expand (x+1)<sup>4</sup> to x<sup>4</sup> + 4x<sup>3</sup> + 6x<sup>2</sup> + 4x + 1."

  5. Expand as a verb (transitive, arithmetic):

    To multiply both the numerator and the denominator of a fraction by the same natural number yielding a fraction of equal value

  6. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To change from a smaller form/size to a larger one.

    Examples:

    "Many materials expand when heated."

    "This compact umbrella expands to cover a large table."

  7. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To increase in extent, number, volume or scope.

  8. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To speak or write at length or in detail.

    Examples:

    "He expanded on his plans for the business."

  9. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To feel generous or optimistic.

  1. Unfold as a verb:

    To undo a folding.

    Examples:

    "to unfold a map; to unfold a tablecloth; she unpacks the new dress and unfolds it carefully"

  2. Unfold as a verb (intransitive):

    To turn out; to happen; to develop.

  3. Unfold as a verb (transitive):

    To reveal.

  4. Unfold as a verb:

    To open (anything covered or closed); to lay open to view or contemplation; to bring out in all the details, or by successive development.

    Examples:

    "to unfold one's designs; to unfold the principles of a science"

  5. Unfold as a verb:

    To release from a fold or pen.

    Examples:

    "to unfold sheep"

  1. Unfold as a noun (computing, programming):

    In functional programming, a kind of higher-order function that is the opposite of a fold.

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