This is the 6495th most frequent Dutch word.
unfold
The Dutch word "unfold" does not exist; it is English.
In this context, 'ontvouwt' signifies the gradual development or revelation of a narrative.
Het verhaal ontvouwt zich langzaam naarmate meer details worden onthuld.
The story unfolds slowly as more details are revealed.
In this sentence, 'ontvouwen' refers to the literal action of a flower opening its petals.
De bloem ontvouwde haar blaadjes in de ochtendzon.
The flower unfolded its petals in the morning sun.
Here, 'ontvouwen' is used metaphorically to mean revealing or explaining plans.