to open up

/ˈoʊpən ˈʌp/

/ˈəʊpən ˈʌp/

Definition & Meaning of "open up"in English

to open up

[phrase form: open]

VERB

to make something available, possible, or reachable, often by creating new opportunities or access points

Transitive: to open up an opportunity or access

Examples

Investments in technology are opening up options for remote work and flexible schedules.

The construction of a new bridge will open up the remote village to tourists.

to unlock or unfold something that was previously closed or shut

Transitive: to open up an entry point

Examples

As she approached the house, she reached into her bag to open up the front door.

Please use the key to open up the storage room and retrieve the equipment.

to share or express one's personal thoughts, emotions, or experiences with someone else

Intransitive: to open up | to open up about sth

Examples

After weeks of silence, she finally decided to open up about her struggles with anxiety.

He hesitated at first, but eventually, he began to open up about the challenges he was facing at work.

(of possibilities or opportunities) to become available or reachable

Intransitive

Examples

As the market expanded, new markets and customer bases started to open up for the company.

With advancements in technology, new avenues are opening up for entrepreneurs.

to make a hole, crack, path, etc. visible or wider

Transitive: to open up a hole or path

Examples

A controlled explosion was used to open up a path through the rock for the new highway.

The carpenter opened up a section of the floor to access the plumbing beneath.

(of a hole, crack, wound, path, etc.) to become wider or visible

Intransitive

Examples

The wound on his knee opened up, causing fresh bleeding.

As the ice melted, a fissure opened up in the frozen lake.

to prepare for business by unlocking doors and getting ready for the day ahead

Transitive: to open up a place of business

Examples

The librarian opens up the library promptly at 9 AM for daily visitors.

The bookstore clerk enjoys the quiet moments before customers arrive after opening up the store.

to start firing or shooting weapons

Intransitive

Examples

As the enemy aircraft approached, the anti-aircraft guns opened up with a barrage of fire.

When the first shots were fired, the soldiers in the trench quickly opened up on the enemy.

to launch or establish a new business or branch

Transitive: to open up a new business or branch

Examples

We 're excited to open up our new bakery next month in the city center.

She dreams of opening up a cozy bookstore with a focus on independent authors.

to create an advantage for one's side, often by gaining a lead in a game or competition

Transitive: to open up an advantage

Examples

During the debate, Maria opened up a substantial lead in the polls with her persuasive arguments.

In the race, Alex opened up a comfortable gap between himself and the other competitors.

(of a situation or issue) to occur or emerge

Intransitive

Examples

A heated conversation opened up within the community following the controversial remarks made by the speaker.

Inquiries opened up into possible misconduct within the organization.

to cause a situation or issue to occur

Transitive: to open up a situation

Examples

His innovative proposal aimed at opening up a dialogue on sustainable urban development.

The artist 's exhibition hopes to open up conversations about social justice through visual expression.

Nearby Words

Definition & Meaning of "open up"in English

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