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.
'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 open
'öffnen' and 'auspacken' can both be used with packaging. 'öffnen' only means that you open a package, a bag, or a container. 'auspacken' goes one step further: you take the contents out. That is why you can open a gift without fully unpacking it right away. Learners may confuse the words because when unpacking something, you usually open something first. If the contents are being taken out, 'auspacken' is more precise.
Hannes packt in der Küche die Einkäufe aus.
Hannes unpacks the groceries in the kitchen.
Am Abend öffnet Lena das Paket, aber sie nimmt den Inhalt noch nicht heraus.
In the evening, Lena opens the package, but she does not take the contents out yet.