open
adjective
UK/ˈəʊ.pən/US/ˈoʊ.pən/
not closed or blocked; allowing access, passage, or view
Example Sentences
The door is open, so you can walk right in.
They left the window open to let in some fresh air.
Keep your mind open to new ideas as you explore different career paths.
The store remained open late to accommodate holiday shoppers.
Her suitcase sprang open during the flight, scattering clothes everywhere.
Living in an open environment, with few walls or barriers, can foster collaboration and encourage spontaneous dialogue among team members.
Some students learn best in an open space, where they have room to move, discuss, and interact, rather than being restricted to a traditional classroom layout.
We discovered a secret attic door that was already open, inviting us to climb up and explore the dusty rooms above.
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verb (transitive)
UK/ˈəʊ.pən/US/ˈoʊ.pən/
to cause something to no longer be closed; to make accessible or to begin operation
Example Sentences
Please open the door to let the delivery person inside.
She opened the box carefully, revealing a collection of old photographs.
They plan to open the new cafe next month.
He forgot to open his email for several days and missed an urgent message.
If you open the windows now, you’ll feel a cool evening breeze.
It’s important to open a dialogue with all stakeholders when making major decisions, ensuring transparency and trust throughout the process.
To avoid confusion, the panel chose to open the session by outlining each speaker’s role and the main topics of discussion.
People often hesitate to open their hearts after experiencing rejection, but vulnerability can also pave the way for deeper connections.
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noun (countable)
UK/ˈəʊ.pən/US/ˈoʊ.pən/
an area or environment that is not enclosed; an event or competition open to all participants
Example Sentences
They spent the weekend in the open, camping under the stars.
This year’s tennis open attracted athletes from around the world.
He prefers running in the open rather than on a treadmill.
The golf open allowed both amateurs and professionals to compete for the title.
She feels most inspired when painting in the open rather than being confined to a studio.
The national open provided a platform for young talents, many of whom had never competed at a professional level before but seized the opportunity to showcase their skills.
Frequent travelers treasure the feeling of standing in the wide open, breathing fresh air and taking in unspoiled natural landscapes that are far removed from bustling urban life.
The sign-up process for this local open is straightforward—anyone can register, pay the entry fee, and see how they measure up against seasoned competitors.
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How to Use
Allowing access, not closed or restricted.The word 'open' can be used as both an adjective and a verb. As an adjective, it describes something that is not closed, such as a door or a container. For example, 'Please leave the window open.' As a verb, it means to make something not closed, like opening a door or initiating an event. For instance, 'She will open the meeting at 10 AM.' Additionally, 'open' can metaphorically refer to being receptive or honest, such as 'He is open to new ideas.' It's versatile in expressing accessibility, transparency, and availability in various contexts.
Alternatives
Alternative words for 'open' include 'unlocked', 'ajar', 'accessible', 'unsealed' when referring to physical states. For more abstract uses, alternatives are 'transparent', 'candid', 'receptive', 'frank', or 'honest'. Depending on the context, you might choose 'unrestricted', 'available', or 'free' to convey similar meanings. In technology, 'available' or 'active' could replace 'open' when describing systems or connections. Each alternative carries subtle nuances, so selecting the appropriate synonym depends on the specific usage intended.
Writing
When writing, 'open' can enhance descriptions by conveying clarity, accessibility, and honesty. Use it to describe environments, emotions, or systems that are not closed off, promoting a sense of inclusivity and transparency. For example, 'The open dialogue fostered understanding among team members.' Additionally, 'open' can signify opportunities or possibilities, enriching your narrative. Ensure consistency in tense when using 'open' as a verb, and consider its synonyms to avoid repetition and add variety to your writing style. 'Open' also pairs well with adjectives and adverbs to create impactful imagery, such as 'openly' or 'open-minded'.
Casual Conversation
In daily conversations, 'open' is commonly used to describe things that are not closed, like doors or windows. For example, 'Can you leave the door open?' It can also refer to someone's willingness to share thoughts or feelings, such as 'She's very open about her experiences.' Additionally, 'open' can describe availability, like 'Are you free on Saturday?' or 'Let's keep our plans open for now.' It's a versatile word that helps express accessibility, honesty, and flexibility in everyday interactions.
Etymology
The word 'open' originates from the Old English 'open', which was borrowed from the Latin 'aperire', meaning 'to open, to uncover'. Its usage has evolved over centuries, retaining its core meaning of allowing access or not being closed. 'Open' has been used across various contexts, from physical states like doors and containers to abstract concepts like communication and opportunities. Interesting facts include its presence in idiomatic expressions such as 'open book' and 'open secret', highlighting its versatility in the English language. The word has maintained its fundamental meaning while expanding its applications in modern usage.
