getting the door open

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting the door open" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to the action of successfully opening a door, either literally or metaphorically. Example: "After several attempts, we finally succeeded in getting the door open." Alternative expressions include "opening the door" and "gaining access."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"It's the traffic situation, it's the fear this is getting the door open to ultimately a full casino at Timonium, and the idea that property values may decrease for those communities immediately adjacent to the racetrack," he said.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Most people start companies like this with their own money — and run through much of it just getting the doors open.

The New York Times

"He couldn't get the door open," Mr. Riccio said.

The New York Times

Working out how to get the door open.

The Guardian

The gunman tried to flee, Mr. Browne said, but could not get the door open.

The New York Times

Before their parents could get the door open, Rusroshi fell from the bathroom window.

The New York Times

Finally a locksmith arrives and gets the door open in a couple of minutes.

The New Yorker

"We are knocking on the door but finding it very hard to get the door open.

The Guardian

Somehow a young woman got the door open a crack and shoved her head through.

The New York Times - Arts

Wendy says: It was a struggle to get the door open – furniture had fallen over.

The Guardian - Money

"Then it slowed down and we couldn't get the door open.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "getting the door open" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates the intended meaning, such as creating an opportunity or overcoming a challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "getting the door open" in situations where the intended meaning could be misinterpreted as simply the literal act of opening a door. Provide sufficient context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting the door open" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes an action (opening a door) and can be used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "getting the door open" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage spans both literal and figurative contexts, primarily within news and media. While it can describe the physical act of opening a door, it often represents creating an opportunity or overcoming an obstacle. While generally considered neutral in tone, using the phrase in formal academic writing should be done cautiously. Remember to provide sufficient context when using this phrase metaphorically to avoid misinterpretations. Ludwig's examples offer a range of potential applications, helping you understand how to effectively integrate it into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opening the door

Focuses on the action of making an entrance possible, less about the process or effort involved.

gaining entry

Similar to gaining access, but can also refer to entering a competition or market.

gaining access

Highlights the achievement of admittance, often implying overcoming a barrier or restriction.

unlocking the door

Emphasizes the removal of a lock or obstacle, enabling entry or progress.

forcing the door open

Implies a more forceful or difficult opening, suggesting resistance or urgency.

creating an opportunity

Shifts the focus to metaphorical doors, referring to chances or possibilities.

paving the way

Describes preparation or facilitation for future actions or successes.

breaking down barriers

Highlights the removal of obstacles, often in social or political contexts.

clearing the path

Implies removing obstacles to make progress easier.

initiating progress

Focuses on starting a process or advancement, often in a broader sense.

FAQs

How can I use "getting the door open" in a sentence?

You can use "getting the door open" to describe the literal action of opening a door or, metaphorically, to describe creating an opportunity. For example: "Finally, we succeeded in "getting the door open" after struggling with the lock" or "Networking is essential for "getting the door open" in the competitive job market".

What are some alternatives to "getting the door open"?

You can use alternatives such as "opening the door", "gaining access", or "creating an opportunity depending on the context.

Which is correct, "getting the door open" or "opening the door"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they may have slightly different connotations. "Getting the door open" often implies effort or a process, while "opening the door" is a more general statement of the action.

When should I use "getting the door open" instead of "gaining entry"?

"Getting the door open" can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, implying a process or effort. "Gaining entry" is typically used when referring to entering a physical space or a competition, often implying overcoming some form of restriction.