open the door

Meaning

This phrase literally means to unlock or swing a door open so someone can enter or exit. It is also used metaphorically to mean creating new opportunities or possibilities. The tone is neutral and highly practical.

Examples

• Could you please open the door for me? My hands are full.

  Could you please open the door for me? My hands are full.

• He forgot his keys, so he couldn't open the door.

  He forgot his keys, so he couldn't open the door.

• Please open the door to let some fresh air into the room.

  Please open the door to let some fresh air into the room.

• I heard a knock, so I went to open the door.

  I heard a knock, so I went to open the door.

• Learning a new language can open the door to many great job opportunities.

  Learning a new language can open the door to many great job opportunities.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ Can you open the door to me?

  ✓ Can you open the door for me?

  Use 'for' instead of 'to' when you are performing an action to help someone else.

• ✗ Don't forget to open the door with your key.

  ✓ Don't forget to unlock the door with your key.

  You 'unlock' a door with a key, whereas you 'open' the door by turning the handle and swinging it physically.

Related Expressions

Practice

• It is very hot in here; please ___.

  💡 Let some air in

  Show answer

  open the door

• I had to ___ because the delivery driver arrived.

  💡 Answer the knock

  Show answer

  open the door