door remained open

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "door remained open" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a door is not closed and continues to allow entry or exit. Example: "After the meeting, the door remained open, inviting anyone who wanted to join the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Her office door remained open, with about 15 waiting visitors and passers-by chatting and eating in the outside hallway.

The New York Times

On Monday morning, however, the cold had a more dangerous effect: a malfunctioning door remained open on a car even as the train hurtled toward Grand Central Terminal.

The New York Times

Our door remained open for three years, and we demonstrated time and again our willingness to negotiate with the BMA on the concerns that they raised.

Independent

A BBC spokeswoman said the corporation admitted the discussion about Lowe's future "could have been handled better" and said the "door remained open" should he want to return.

The Guardian

Ed Miliband told the Mirror that the door remained open for his brother, whom he defeated to become Labour leader, to return to the frontbench.

The Guardian

A week after an effort to gain the release of an American jailed in Cuba ended in recriminations, the Cuban foreign minister said Friday that the door remained open to free him on humanitarian grounds, but only with a reciprocal effort from the United States.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

As for his views on UK immigration – should the door remain open?

The Guardian - Music

"They should have a record of the door remaining open for X period of time, and the door lock being actuated again.

The New York Times

For example, on cargo jets, federal regulations require that the cockpit door remain open on takeoff and landing, Federal Express pilots and officials said, conceivably exposing pilots to attackers.

The New York Times

"The door closed on the man, but the other doors remained open," said another passenger, Blake Zoephel.

The New York Times

were all detained beside the elevator, whose doors remained open, allowing them to back slowly in.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "door remained open" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes what the 'door' represents (e.g., an opportunity, a negotiation). This will prevent any ambiguity and strengthen your message.

Common error

Avoid using "door remained open" when the context implies a definite end or closure. The phrase suggests a possibility of future engagement or access, so using it inappropriately can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "door remained open" primarily functions as a clause element, often the predicate, within a sentence. It describes a state of continuation or possibility, as supported by Ludwig's examples where it signifies ongoing opportunities or negotiations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

23%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "door remained open" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression signifying that an opportunity or possibility is still available. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable in written English. Analysis of example sources reveals that it is most frequently found in news and media, with secondary usage in science and wiki contexts. Related phrases such as "avenue remained open" or "opportunity remained available" offer similar meanings with slight shifts in emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure that the 'door' is clearly defined in the context to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avenue remained open

Synonymous, but uses 'avenue' as a metaphor for opportunity.

opening persisted

Similar to 'avenue remained open' but slightly more general.

access was maintained

Highlights the ongoing access to something, be it physical or metaphorical.

opportunity remained available

Focuses on the opportunity aspect rather than the physical state of the door, emphasizing continued possibility.

option remained viable

Similar to the above, but emphasizes the practicality and feasibility of an option.

pathway remained accessible

Highlights the accessibility of a route or course of action.

invitation stood

Implies a standing invitation, less literal and more about continued welcome.

chances continued

Emphasizes the continuation of chances or opportunities.

prospect persisted

Focuses on the enduring nature of a prospect or possibility.

possibility lingered

Suggests a subtle, continued presence of a chance or possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "door remained open" in a sentence?

You can use "door remained open" to indicate that an opportunity, negotiation, or possibility is still available. For example, "Despite the initial setbacks, the "door remained open" for further discussions".

What's the difference between "door remained open" and "door was left open"?

"Door remained open" implies a conscious decision or understanding that the opportunity or access is still available. "Door was left open" can imply negligence or accident.

What can I say instead of "door remained open" to convey a similar meaning?

You can use alternatives like "avenue remained open", "opportunity remained available", or "option remained viable" depending on the context.

Is "door remained open" formal or informal?

The phrase "door remained open" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of your writing.