The phrase "opens out" is spelled with three syllables: /ˈoʊpənz aʊt/. The first syllable, "o" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, while the second syllable, "pen," uses a short "e" sound. The final syllable, "sout," rhymes with "out." This phrase means to expand or unfold, both literally and figuratively. Knowing the IPA phonetic transcription of words like "opens out" can help non-native English speakers improve their pronunciation and comprehension skills.
The term "opens out" refers to the action of unfolding or expanding something that was previously closed or compressed. It implies the process of making an object or space more accessible, visible, or functional by allowing it to spread or extend.
In a physical context, "opens out" can describe the act of unrolling a rolled-up item like a carpet, map, or scroll, thereby revealing its entire surface area. It can also involve expanding or pulling apart the leaves of a book, card, or document, so that all the content becomes visible. This term can further relate to the act of extending or expanding a piece of furniture, such as a table or chair, from a compact form to its full size.
"Opens out" can also be used metaphorically to denote the process of revealing or exploring hidden possibilities, opportunities, or potential. It implies that certain options or ideas were initially obscured or confined, but by unfolding or expanding our perspective, we are able to uncover new insights or choices. In this sense, "opens out" can imply a journey of discovery and growth, where one's understanding or knowledge expands beyond its initial limits.
Overall, "opens out" signifies the act of unfolding, expanding, or revealing something that was previously closed, folded, or concealed, both in a physical and metaphorical sense.
The phrase "opens out" is a combination of two words, "opens" and "out".
1. Opens: The verb "open" can be traced back to the Old English word "opnian" or "opnian", which means "to open, to disclose, or to uncover". It has Germanic roots and is related to other Germanic languages such as Old High German "offanon" and Gothic "ufnan". The word "open" has remained relatively unchanged over the centuries.
2. Out: The word "out" also has Old English origins and can be traced back to the word "ūt". It has Indo-European roots and is related to other Germanic languages such as Old Saxon "ūt", Old Norse "út", and Old High German "ūz". In its basic sense, "out" refers to moving away from the interior or exiting a location.