English language debate...?

[heluvajobu]

I am wondering two things. One is a mere question of the English language. The other is a polite debate between my wife and I. First of all, why is it that "thaw" and "unthaw" mean the same thing, when, in just about every other case in English, the prefix "un-" describes the opposite of the word it precedes? Secondly, which word do you more commonly use, "thaw" or "unthaw?"

 

[Not So Shy Boi]

That is so funny. I remember that topic a long time ago.

The two words are actually different, it just that people use them interchangeably. The word thaw refers to a frozen object and the would unthaw can be used for something not frozen that can liquify, such as melting chocolate as well as ice. I hardly ever use the word unthaw but most frequently use the word thaw because there is more cause to.

 

[Cassi]

English is such a confusing language, it's just another one of those contradictions. I've always used "thaw" myself.

 

[Bay of plenty]

Thaw is to change and unthaw is to become or cause