keep an offer open

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep an offer open" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the duration or validity of an offer, indicating that it will remain available for acceptance for a certain period. Example: "We are willing to keep the offer open for another two weeks to give you time to consider it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

3. Was it irrelevant that the defendant's promise was in writing? 4. Has the "naked" promise to keep an offer open for a certain period any legal significance?

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But you might want to inform the seller you will keep your offer open for only three more days so you can consider other property.

Los Angeles Times

Keep an open mind and open heart.

WikiHow

The ordinance was duly voted upon and passed, and I offered to keep an eye open for any violators.

The New Yorker

Keep an open ear and an open mind.

WikiHow

Keep an open mind and an open heart in relationships.

WikiHow

The Mets have clear needs — a catcher, some outfielders, and, in general, capable right-handed hitters — but Alderson said the team would keep an open mind while listening to offers from other clubs.

The New York Times - Sports

Keep an open mind In fast-growth companies, CFOs offer a steadying hand while retaining the spirit of entrepreneurship.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Universities usually keep their offers open for 24 hours, so it's worth your son or daughter taking time to think about whether the university and course is definitely right for them.

The Guardian

Direct mail allows you to keep your offers open to all audiences rather than just the majority who fit your online strategy.

HuffPost

I found that even jobs I wasn't seriously considering initially can make very convincing and alluring job offers and sales pitches, so keep an open mind.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep an offer open", clearly specify the duration for which the offer will remain valid to avoid any ambiguity. For example, "We will keep the offer open for 30 days."

Common error

Avoid stating you will "keep an offer open" without specifying a deadline. This can lead to misunderstandings and potential legal issues. Always include an expiration date.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep an offer open" functions as a directive or commitment. It indicates that the offeror is willing to maintain the offer's availability for acceptance. Ludwig confirms that it's correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep an offer open" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate the continued validity and availability of an offer. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It's particularly prevalent in news, academic, and business contexts. For best practice, always specify a clear duration when using this phrase to prevent ambiguity. Related phrases include "hold an offer open" and "maintain an open offer". When writing, ensure you avoid vague durations, which can lead to misunderstandings. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate your intentions and avoid potential issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold an offer open

Replaces "keep" with "hold", implying a temporary maintenance of the offer.

maintain an open offer

Swaps "keep" for "maintain" and adjusts the word order slightly, still indicating preservation of the offer.

leave an offer open

Uses "leave" to mean allowing the offer to remain available.

sustain an open offer

Replaces "keep" with "sustain", suggesting a more active effort to maintain the offer's availability.

extend the offer's validity

Focuses on the validity period, suggesting a lengthening of the time the offer is good for.

prolong the offer period

Similar to extending validity, but more directly references the duration of the offer.

preserve the offer's availability

Highlights making sure the offer can be accepted.

allow the offer to remain open

Emphasizes permission for the offer to stay active.

not withdraw the offer

Uses negation to indicate the same meaning, focusing on the absence of cancellation.

refrain from closing the offer

Implies avoiding the termination of the offer, maintaining its open status.

FAQs

How can I politely phrase that I will "keep an offer open" for a limited time?

You can say, "This offer will remain valid until [date]" or "We're pleased to "extend this offer" until [date] to allow you ample time for consideration."

What does it mean to "keep an offer open"?

To "keep an offer open" means that the offer remains available for the recipient to accept within a specified timeframe. During this period, the offeror agrees not to withdraw or change the terms of the offer.

What are some formal alternatives to "keep an offer open" in a business context?

In a formal business setting, consider using phrases like "maintain the validity of the offer", "hold the offer open", or "ensure the offer remains available".

Can a university "keep an offer open" after the stated deadline?

While uncommon, universities might "extend the deadline" under special circumstances, such as delayed receipt of important documents or a significant change in personal circumstances. Contact the admissions office directly to request an extension.