lies open

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lies open" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is physically open or accessible, often referring to a book, door, or other objects. Example: "The book lies open on the table, inviting anyone to read its pages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Civil society simply lies open to terrorist attacks.

The New Yorker

A book about seals lies open on the sofa.

The Guardian

"The Official Preppy Handbook" lies open on the unmade bed.

The New York Times - Arts

The Frenchman's large black shoes stand together by his suitcase, which lies open on the floor.

The New Yorker

A copy of the Koran lies open in his right hand.

The New Yorker

It still lies open at the same page in my study at home".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

When the contestant picks door A, the host, knowing where the money lies, opens door C, revealing a rubber duck.

The New York Times - Books

Beyond lay open country.

The New Yorker

All possibilities lie open.

Independent

They lie open to vandalism.

The New York Times

His Shakespeare lay open beside him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lies open" to create a sense of vulnerability, opportunity, or invitation, especially when describing abstract concepts like possibilities or societal issues. For example, "The path to innovation lies open, waiting for bold ideas."

Common error

While "lies open" is versatile, overuse in formal writing can make your text sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "is accessible" or "is revealed" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lies open" functions primarily as a verb phrase that describes a state of being. It indicates that something is accessible, exposed, or available, either physically or metaphorically. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lies open" is a versatile and grammatically sound verb phrase used to denote a state of accessibility, vulnerability, or availability. According to Ludwig AI, its frequent occurrence in news and media outlets signifies its appropriateness for general use. While alternatives like "is accessible" or "is revealed" exist, "lies open" carries a unique nuance that emphasizes exposure and invitation. Consider the context to use this phrase effectively, and avoid overuse to maintain stylistic variation. The analysis underscores the importance of recognizing both the grammatical function and communicative purpose when using the phrase "lies open" in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is accessible

Focuses on the accessibility aspect, shifting the emphasis from a physical state to a state of being available.

remains accessible

Highlights the continuity of accessibility over a period of time.

is exposed

Highlights the vulnerability or lack of protection implied by something being open.

remains exposed

Highlights the continuity of being exposed over a period of time.

is available

Emphasizes readiness and potential use, rather than just a physical condition.

is readily available

Focuses on the ease and quickness of access, emphasizing convenience.

is presented

Shifts focus to the act of something being shown or made visible.

is revealed

Implies a disclosure or uncovering, adding a sense of discovery.

is uncovered

Similar to "is revealed", but often suggests a more literal removal of a covering.

is undefended

Focuses on the lack of protection and potential for attack or harm.

FAQs

How can I use "lies open" in a sentence?

The phrase "lies open" typically describes something that is physically or metaphorically accessible, exposed, or available. For example, "The book lies open on the table", or "The opportunity lies open to those who are willing to work hard".

What does "lies open" mean?

The phrase "lies open" suggests a state of being accessible, exposed, or available. It can refer to a physical object being open or a situation being receptive to possibilities or vulnerabilities.

What are some alternatives to "lies open"?

You can use alternatives like "is accessible", "is exposed", or "is available" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "lay open" instead of "lies open"?

No, "lay open" has a different meaning and grammatical structure. "Lies open" describes something in a state of being open, while "lay open" (past tense of "lay open") would describe the act of making something open or exposing it.