keep it open

USAGE SUMMARY

It is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used in many situations, usually when referring to the idea of not closing a door, a window, or keeping a plan, agreement, or conversation from being resolved. For example, "Let's keep it open for now - we'll revisit the discussion next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But keep it open.

The New York Times

And always keep it open to change".

The New York Times

"If they keep it open long enough".

The New York Times

Someone had to keep it open".

The New York Times

You can't keep it open on your lap.

The New York Times

"We need to keep it open so we have jobs".

The New York Times

How's that?" "Better git it out an' keep it open.

The New Yorker

It could be crap, but you just keep it open.

The Guardian

If this one's successful, we'll keep it open," he says.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

But we (the band) never finished, we'll keep it open.

Wikipedia

"We keep it open-ended," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep it open" when you want to suggest maintaining access, availability, or a state of unresolved consideration. For example, "Let's keep the discussion open until we have more information."

Common error

Avoid using "keep it open" when the context requires a more specific or nuanced expression. Overusing it in situations that demand greater precision can dilute your message. Instead, consider more tailored phrases like "remain flexible" or "stay available" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "keep it open" is as a phrasal verb, often functioning as a directive or suggestion to maintain a certain state of accessibility or availability. As seen in Ludwig, the expression is suitable for various situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keep it open" is a versatile expression used to advocate for maintaining accessibility, flexibility, or a state of unresolved consideration. As indicated by Ludwig, its grammatical function is primarily that of a phrasal verb, and its communicative purpose is to promote openness and prevent premature closure. The tone is generally neutral, making it appropriate for a variety of settings. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its common usage in news, wiki, and scientific contexts. The linguistic analysis underscores its function, purpose, and register. The "aiResponseStatus" confirms its correctness for use in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep it accessible

Focuses specifically on maintaining ease of access, whether physical or metaphorical.

maintain it open

Emphasizes the act of actively preserving the open state.

leave it available

Highlights the state of being ready and available for use or access.

refrain from closing it

Specifically advises against the act of closing something.

do not shut it down

Directly addresses the cessation of operation or function.

hold the opportunity open

Centers on preserving a chance or possibility.

keep the offer valid

Highlights the continuous validity of a proposal or agreement.

keep the position unfilled

Relates to maintaining a vacancy or available role.

leave the matter unresolved

Indicates a deliberate choice not to finalize a decision.

postpone the conclusion

Suggests delaying the final decision or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "keep it open" in a sentence?

You can use "keep it open" to mean to maintain something in an accessible or unresolved state. For instance, "We should keep the channel of communication open" or "Let's keep the possibility open".

What are some alternatives to "keep it open"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "maintain access", "stay available", or "remain flexible".

Is it correct to say "kept it open" instead of "keep it open"?

Yes, "kept it open" is the past tense form of "keep it open". For example, "They kept the store open late".

What does it mean to "keep it open" in a metaphorical sense?

Metaphorically, "keep it open" often means to remain receptive to new ideas, possibilities, or discussions. It suggests a willingness to consider different perspectives or options.