open up
1 of 1verb/ˈoʊpən ʌp/
Forms:opens up,opening up,opened up,opened up
1
to make something available, possible, or reachable, often by creating new opportunities or access points
transitive- 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.
- Providing scholarships will open up educational pathways for underprivileged students.
- The expansion of online platforms is opening up opportunities for small businesses to reach global markets.
- Upgrading the website's user interface will open up access to a wider audience.
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2
to unlock or unfold something that was previously closed or shut
transitive- 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.
- After unlocking the safe, he carefully opened it up to access the valuable documents.
- He used a key to open up the antique cabinet and reveal its hidden compartments.
- She carefully opened the package up to see the contents of the gift.
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3
to share or express one's personal thoughts, emotions, or experiences with someone else
- 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.
- It's important for friends to create a supportive environment where they can open up to each other.
- During the therapy session, she gradually started to open up about her traumatic experiences.
- In a heart-to-heart conversation, they both opened up about their dreams and fears for the future.
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4
(of possibilities or opportunities) to become available or reachable
- 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.
- With improved transportation infrastructure, remote areas are opening up for tourism.
- As she pursued her education, new career opportunities began to open up for her.
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5
to make a hole, crack, path, etc. visible or wider
transitive- 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.
- To investigate the issue, the technician opened up a small panel on the machinery.
- The construction crew opened up a hole in the ground to install a new utility line.
- In dentistry, a small drill is often used to open up cavities for fillings.
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6
(of a hole, crack, wound, path, etc.) to become wider or visible
- The wound on his knee opened up, causing fresh bleeding.
- As the ice melted, a fissure opened up in the frozen lake.
- Over time, wear and tear caused a gap to open up in the fence.
- The old bridge showed signs of deterioration, and cracks began to open up.
- After the earthquake, a large crack opened up in the pavement, causing concern for safety.
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7
to prepare for business by unlocking doors and getting ready for the day ahead
transitive- 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.
- He opened the cafe up early to brew fresh coffee for the morning rush.
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8
to start firing or shooting weapons
- 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.
- As the signal was given, the artillery batteries opened up, shaking the ground with their firepower.
- As the patrol entered the combat zone, the insurgents opened up with small arms fire.
- Upon detecting movement in the forest, the sniper team opened up to neutralize the threat.
9
to launch or establish a new business or branch
transitive- 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.
- They decided to open up a clothing boutique in the trendy shopping district.
- Next year, they have plans to open up a fitness studio offering specialized classes.
- After careful planning, they successfully opened up their own tech startup.
10
to create an advantage for one's side, often by gaining a lead in a game or competition
transitive- 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.
- With a series of successful shots, the basketball team opened up a double-digit lead in the second quarter.
- In the card game, she opened up a point lead with a well-played hand, putting pressure on her opponents.
- The aggressive offensive plays allowed the soccer team to open up a comfortable lead early in the game.
11
(of a situation or issue) to occur or emerge
- 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.
- A disagreement opened up among team members regarding the allocation of project resources.
- A debate opened up among scholars about the interpretation of historical events presented in the book.
12
to cause a situation or issue to occur
transitive- 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.
- The sensitive issue opened up a division between the two ministers, sparking disagreements and differing viewpoints.
- The workshop is intended to open up discussions on mental health in the workplace.
- The budget allocation issue opened up a division between city officials, resulting in prolonged negotiations.