to unpack / to spill
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to unpack
To take something out of its packaging or a container, for example gifts, groceries, or the contents of a suitcase.
Nach dem Urlaub müssen wir erst die Koffer auspacken, bevor wir uns ausruhen können.
After the vacation, we first have to unpack the suitcases before we can rest.
to spill the beans
Colloquial for revealing information or secrets, often under pressure.
Nach stundenlangem Verhör hat der Zeuge endlich ausgepackt und alles erzählt.
After hours of questioning, the witness finally spilled the beans and told everything.
'Auspacken' (to unpack) is a separable verb. The prefix 'aus-' goes to the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Die Kinder packen ihre Geschenke sofort aus.
The children unpack their gifts immediately.
In its literal meaning, 'auspacken' (to unpack) is often combined with things that are in packaging. Typical examples are: 'einen Koffer auspacken' (to unpack a suitcase), 'Geschenke auspacken' (to unpack gifts), or 'die Einkäufe auspacken' (to unpack the groceries).
Als Erstes nach der Ankunft im Hotel packe ich immer meinen Koffer aus.
The first thing I always do after arriving at the hotel is unpack my suitcase.
The figurative meaning 'Geheimnisse verraten' (to reveal secrets) is colloquial. It is often used in informal conversations or in crime novels.
Der Kommissar hoffte, dass der Verdächtige bald auspacken würde.
The inspector hoped that the suspect would soon spill the beans.
You can recognize the figurative meaning by the fact that there is no concrete object that can be unpacked. The verb often stands alone or in a context involving information or secrets.
Nach langem Zögern packte er endlich aus und erzählte die ganze Geschichte.
After hesitating for a long time, he finally spilled the beans and told the whole story.
to sing
Both words can mean that someone gives the police incriminating information. „Singen“ is the colloquial term for breaking one’s silence, while „auspacken“ places more emphasis on revealing many details or secrets. „Singen“ is more suitable for a brief confession, while „auspacken“ is more suitable for a comprehensive revelation.
Nach langem Schweigen packte der Verdächtige im Verhör über den ganzen Plan aus.
After remaining silent for a long time, the suspect spilled the beans about the whole plan during questioning.
Nach langem Schweigen begann der Verdächtige im Verhör zu singen.
After remaining silent for a long time, the suspect started singing during questioning.
