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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
an open option
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "an open option" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a choice or alternative that is available and not restricted. Example: "In our discussion, we decided to keep an open option for future collaborations with other companies."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
11 human-written examples
We sincerely hope that we do not reach that point, but if you are not capable of resolving this matter of Mr Assange's presence in your premises, this is an open option for us".
News & Media
To be sure, it is an open option to assume that the inconsistencies due to vague predicates and borderline objects are, as a matter of fact, only de dicto, due to merely semantic under- and over- determination of ordinary language.
Science
By providing a flexible, open-source framework, The Linux Foundation is giving developers an open option and trying to provide a flexible foundation to build applications as this all shakes out.
News & Media
On the one hand, it remains an open option to pursue the search for a criterion of empirical significance in terms of constructed, formal languages further along the lines opened by Carnap with his theory-relative proposal of 1956 (and its later defense against critics).
Science
Gregory wants to know if Congress will allow the use of force to remain an open option.
News & Media
Seven years beforehand, we had a commitment ceremony to ensure that we had at least some of the rights, protections and responsibilities in the eyes of the law -- not ever imagining that marriage would be an open option to us in our lifetime.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
49 human-written examples
APC waivers and discounts are not offered for open access articles published in subscription journals offering an "Open Choice" option.
Science & Research
We think video should have a great, free, and open option as well.
News & Media
Most questions in the final questionnaire had a closed yes/no or multiple choice format with an open answer option.
Science
Save the file, don't just use an "open (file)" option when the downloader opens asking you to choose between the two options.
Wiki
With a few open options left, The Nudge Global Leadership Challenge, had completely riveted my attention.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "an open option" when you want to emphasize that a decision is not yet finalized and multiple possibilities are still being considered. This phrase suggests flexibility and a willingness to adapt based on future developments.
Common error
While "an open option" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. In such contexts, consider stronger, more precise alternatives like "a viable alternative" or "a pending decision" to enhance the clarity and impact of your message.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "an open option" functions as a noun phrase. It refers to a choice or possibility that remains available and is still under consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English. It is often used to indicate flexibility and a lack of finality in decision-making.
Frequent in
News & Media
40%
Science
40%
Wiki
20%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "an open option" is a grammatically sound and neutrally registered phrase used to convey that a decision or choice remains available. While the Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is valid, it appears more frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts. For formal writing, consider using stronger, more precise alternatives such as ""a viable alternative"" or ""a feasible route"" to enhance clarity. Avoid overuse, and remember that it indicates flexibility in decision-making processes.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a viable alternative
Replaces "option" with "alternative", emphasizing feasibility.
a possible choice
Substitutes "option" with "choice", highlighting selection.
an available possibility
Replaces "option" with "possibility", suggesting potential.
a feasible route
Changes "open option" to "feasible route", focusing on practicality and direction.
a valid course of action
Emphasizes the legitimacy and appropriateness of a potential action.
a live possibility
Highlights that something is actively under consideration.
a pending decision
Implies a decision is yet to be made and is currently in progress.
a continuing opportunity
Focuses on the sustained availability of a chance or option.
an accessible avenue
Highlights the ease of approach or access to a particular path or method.
a flexible arrangement
Focuses on adaptability and lack of rigidity of said choice.
FAQs
How can I use "an open option" in a sentence?
You can use "an open option" to indicate that a particular choice or possibility is still available and under consideration. For example, "We are keeping "all options open" until we have more information."
What phrases are similar to "an open option"?
Alternatives to "an open option" include "a viable alternative", "a possible choice", or "an available possibility". The best choice depends on the specific context.
Is it appropriate to use "an open option" in formal writing?
While "an open option" is grammatically correct, it may be more suitable for neutral or informal contexts. In formal writing, consider alternatives such as "a feasible route" or "a valid course of action" for greater precision.
What's the difference between "an open option" and "a pending decision"?
"An open option" suggests that a choice is still available, whereas "a pending decision" indicates that a decision needs to be made but hasn't been yet. The former implies optionality, the latter, imminence.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested