Reading Theme:
Open Adjective: Meanings, Examples, and Usage Guide (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：not shut (open)
open
/ˈoʊpən/
adj.
Not shut or closed. It describes something like a door or window that is not blocking the way.
not shut
➕
/nɑːt ʃʌt/
adj.
Describing something that is not closed or blocked, allowing access or passage.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'open', related to 'up', meaning to lift or make accessible.
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a door swinging wide open to welcome new possibilities.
📖 Example
I left the window open last night to let in some fresh air.
I left the window open last night to let in some fresh air.
🔗 Collocations
open door – A door that is not closed
open window – A window that is not shut
open space – An area without obstacles or barriers
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'open' has been used since Old English times to describe unblocked doors and windows. Today, it is commonly seen on signs indicating a business is ready to serve customers.
Meaning 2：receptive (open)
open
/ˈoʊpən/
adj.
Willing to listen to or accept new ideas and people. Not secretive or limited in thinking.
receptive
➕
/rɪˈsɛptɪv/
adj.
Willing to listen to or consider new ideas, opinions, or people without being defensive or secretive.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My new boss is very open to feedback from the team, which makes everyone feel valued.
My new boss is very open to feedback from the team, which makes everyone feel valued.
🔗 Collocations
open mind – A willingness to consider new ideas
open to suggestions – Receptive to advice or proposals
open discussion – A conversation where all opinions are welcome
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
closed-minded (adj.) – Not willing to consider different ideas
secretive (adj.) – Keeping information hidden; not open
biased (adj.) – Prejudiced; not open to fair consideration
🌱 Derivatives
openness (n.) – The quality of being receptive and honest
openly (adv.) – Without hiding feelings or opinions
open-minded (adj.) – Willing to consider new ideas
Meaning 3：operating (open)
open
/ˈoʊpən/
adj.
A shop, restaurant, or business that is ready to serve customers or is currently operating.
operating
➕
/ˈɑpəˌreɪtɪŋ/
adj.
Describing a business, shop, or service that is currently available for customers to use or visit.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
We need to find a coffee shop that's open at this early hour.
We need to find a coffee shop that's open at this early hour.
🔗 Collocations
open for business – Ready and available to serve customers
open hours – The times when a business is accessible
stay open – Remain available for customers beyond usual times
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
closed (adj.) – Not operating; not available for customers
shut (adj.) – Closed for business; not open
out of service (adj. phrase) – Not available for use; temporarily closed
Wordbook
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