open
Move to not be closed
To move something so it is not closed anymore.
to open [something]
- She opened the door to let in some fresh air.
- Please open the window; it's too hot in here.
- I opened the box and found a gift inside.
- Open the door, please.
- I open the box.
- He opens the window.
Begin an event officially
To start something like a meeting, shop, or event officially.
to open [event/business]
- The mayor opened the new art gallery last night.
- We will open the store at 9 a.m.
- She opened the meeting by thanking everyone for coming.
- The shop opens at eight.
- He opens the meeting.
- They open the new school today.
Not closed or fastened
Not closed; able to enter or see through.
- The window is open, so be careful with the papers.
- The door was wide open when we arrived.
- Keep the lid open while stirring.
- The door is open.
- My window is open.
- The box is open.
Accessible to everyone
Available for all people to join or use.
- The park is open to the public all year round.
- This job is open to applicants from any country.
- The library is open until 8 p.m.
- The park is open to all.
- This class is open to students.
- The shop is open now.
Make available for access/use
To let people use or enter something.
to open [something] to [someone]
- They opened the archives to researchers.
- The new road will open the area to more tourists.
- We are opening our platform to developers worldwide.
- We open the gate to visitors.
- They open the files to the public.
- The school opens its doors to everyone.
- Base: open
- Base: open
- 3rd Person Singular: opens
- Present Participle: opening
- Past: opened
open for business
1Ready to serve customers/clients
Ready and prepared to sell goods or services.
- The store is now open for business after renovations.
- Despite the storm, most shops were open for business.
open season (on)
1Period when attack/criticism allowed/easy
A time when it is easy or allowed to attack, criticize, or hunt someone or something.
- It's open season on corrupt politicians right now.
- Deer hunting open season starts next week.
open up
1Become/make accessible or receptive
To make something easier to enter or use, or to talk more freely about feelings.
- The new policy will open up more opportunities for small businesses.
- He finally opened up about his childhood.
out in the open
1Visible and not hidden
In a place where people can see; not secret anymore.
- Their relationship is now out in the open.
- We need to bring these issues out in the open.
wide open
1Completely open/unrestricted
Fully open without anything blocking it, or with no limits.
- The door was left wide open all night.
- The race is wide open this year.
wide open
2Completely open and unrestricted
Completely open, with nothing blocking it.
- The door was left wide open.
- Her eyes were wide open in surprise.