“Open” vs. “Leave Open”: What’s the Difference?

A line illustration of two people with their mouth open, and a giant question mark between them.

The difference between “open” and “leave open”

  • "Open" involves starting, initiating, or providing access to something, while "leave open" refers to not taking any further action or decision on something already in an open state.
  • "Open" suggests an affirmative action, whereas "leave open" indicates a status quo to be maintained.
  • "Open" implies an action that advances progress, whereas "leave open" suggests a pause or indecision.
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What is the definition of “open” and “leave open”?

Open
  • "Open" means to remove any obstruction or barrier that is hindering access to an object or place.
  • It can also mean initiating or starting a process or making something available for the public to access.
  • When something is open, it indicates that it is accessible and available for use or entry.
Leave open
  • "Leave open" refers to maintaining the current state of an object, space, or process and not interfering with or altering it further.
  • It may also indicate that a decision or action is being postponed and will be evaluated again later.
  • Leaving something open suggests that it is not yet closed or finalized.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Open” is the more popular variant on the web.
More popular
Open
8,500,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. I opened the door so we could get some fresh air.
  2. The company decided to open a new branch in a different city.
  3. We have to be open to new ideas if we want to grow and improve.
Leave open
1,670,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The deadline for the project has been extended. They've left it open for a few more days.
  2. Regarding the issue, let's leave it open and continue to discuss it tomorrow when we're all less tired.
  3. I always leave the possibility of changing my mind open.
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