open arms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "open arms" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a warm and welcoming attitude towards someone, often when greeting them or receiving them back. Example: "When she returned home after years abroad, her family welcomed her with open arms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The companies take you with open arms.

The New York Times

Open doors and open arms were in.

The New York Times

With open arms we greet you, friends!

The New Yorker

"You are welcomed here with open arms".

The New York Times - Health

They should be welcomed with open arms.

The Economist

We wait for you with open arms.

The New Yorker

"Springfield Gardens accepted you with open arms".

The New York Times - Sports

"They welcome new players with open arms".

The New York Times

"We've been welcomed with open arms.

The New York Times - Sports

You're accepted with open arms.

The New York Times

We were received with open arms".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "open arms" to convey a sense of genuine warmth and acceptance, especially in situations where someone is being welcomed into a new community, organization, or personal relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "open arms" in literal contexts where physical arms are involved, unless the intention is clearly metaphorical. For instance, saying "the robot greeted them with open arms" could be confusing if the robot actually has articulated arms.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "open arms" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically used as an adverbial phrase to describe the manner in which someone is welcomed or received. It indicates a warm, enthusiastic, and accepting reception, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "open arms" effectively conveys a warm and accepting welcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While largely neutral in register, it might be slightly informal for strictly academic writing. To enhance writing, ensure the idiom's figurative meaning aligns with the context, avoiding literal interpretations unless intentionally metaphorical. Consider alternatives like "warm welcome" or "heartfelt embrace" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

warm reception

Similar to warm welcome, but places more emphasis on the event or situation.

warm welcome

Focuses on the positive reception, omitting the physical imagery.

eager embrace

Shows enthusiasm and anticipation in the welcoming.

heartfelt embrace

Emphasizes the emotional depth and sincerity of the welcome.

wholehearted acceptance

Stresses the completeness and sincerity of the welcome.

cordial reception

Highlights politeness and formality in the welcoming.

gracious welcome

Emphasizes the elegance and courtesy in the way someone is received.

friendly greeting

Implies a generally affable and amicable welcome.

accepting attitude

Focuses on the mental state of acceptance rather than the physical action of greeting.

generous hospitality

Indicates a welcoming that includes providing comfort and care.

FAQs

What does it mean to welcome someone with "open arms"?

Welcoming someone with "open arms" means greeting them with enthusiasm, warmth, and acceptance, making them feel comfortable and valued.

Can I use "open arms" in formal writing?

Yes, although it's an idiom, "open arms" is widely accepted and understood in various contexts, including formal writing. However, ensure it aligns with the tone and style of your writing. Consider "cordial reception" for very formal contexts.

What are some alternatives to saying "open arms"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "warm welcome", "heartfelt embrace", or "accepting attitude".

How do I use "open arms" in a sentence?

You can use "open arms" to describe how someone is received or welcomed. For example: "The community welcomed the new family with open arms" or "The company accepted the proposal with open arms".