LEAVE OPEN Meaning and
Definition
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To leave open refers to the act of not closing, shutting, or sealing something, allowing access, passage, or availability. It can be applied to a variety of contexts, both literal and figurative.
In a physical sense, leaving something open means intentionally not closing or sealing it shut. This could involve leaving a door, window, or container open, providing unrestricted entry or exit. For instance, leaving a door open may be done to invite guests into a room or allow ventilation. Similarly, leaving a container open can indicate that its contents are accessible and available for use or consumption.
In a figurative sense, leaving something open entails keeping a decision, option, or possibility undecided or available for consideration. It signifies refraining from making a conclusive or final decision, either due to uncertainty, the existence of other alternatives, or the desire to gather further information. For instance, leaving a job offer open means not immediately accepting or rejecting it, keeping it as a possible choice while exploring other possibilities.
Additionally, leaving a question or issue open implies that it has not been resolved or answered definitively and continues to require attention or discussion. This can often be seen in debates or discussions where unresolved matters are intentionally left open until further evidence or conclusions are reached.
Overall, leaving something open involves not closing, sealing, or finalizing it, whether in terms of physical access or in decision-making.
Common Misspellings for LEAVE OPEN
Etymology of LEAVE OPEN
The etymology of the phrase "leave open" can be understood by examining the origins of the individual words involved.
1. Leave: word "leave" has its roots in Old English "lǣfan", which means "to allow, permit, let remain". It is also related to the Old English word "lēaf", which means "permission" or "leave". Over time, the term evolved in Middle English to "leve" and later to the modern form "leave". In the context of "leave open", it refers to granting authorization or permission for something to remain in an open state.
2. Open: word "open" originated from the Old English word "opnian" or "openian", which means "to open or unfasten". It has Germanic roots and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*op-" meaning "work, build, open".
Idioms with the word LEAVE OPEN
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leave open the possibility of (something or doing something)
The idiom "leave open the possibility of (something or doing something)" means to not definitively rule out or eliminate the chance of a particular event or action occurring in the future. It suggests keeping options or alternatives available without committing to a specific decision or outcome.
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leave open the possibility of
The idiom "leave open the possibility of" means to maintain or keep available the chance or opportunity for a certain outcome or possibility to occur in the future. It refers to intentionally not closing off or deciding against a particular option, leaving room for further consideration or action.
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leave open the possibility of sth/doing sth
The idiom "leave open the possibility of something/doing something" means to not completely eliminate or rule out the potential for something or the action of doing something. It suggests allowing for the option or chance of a particular outcome, decision, or course of action, rather than definitively closing it off.
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leave open
To leave open means to not make a final decision or commitment; to keep a possibility or option available for future consideration.
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