open gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

"open gesture" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe an outward sign of goodwill or acceptance, such as a smile, hug, or handshake. For example, "John extended an open gesture of friendship to Mary when he invited her to dinner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

For most people, it's better to find a descriptive or more open gesture to emphasize a key issue.

Independent

"You can write that," he added, as if to underscore his open gesture of friendship in the midst of Russia's ideological dispute with Peking.

The New York Times

In each, dancers repeatedly move from a bent-forward position — with arms together pointing like a unicorn's horn — to an expansively arched-back open gesture.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead, union recognition would occur merely by showing that 50% of workers had signed union cards, a publicly open gesture that makes workers vulnerable to intimidation.

Forbes

'Air Conditioned' 2022 World Cup In Jeopardy As Players' Union Calls For Winter Tournament FCC Reveals The JBL On Air Wireless AirPlay Speaker System This Super Mario Bros 3 Furniture Set Will Really Impress The Princesses PrimeSense, Co-Creator Of Kinect, To Lead Open Gesture Tech Organization Dear Tech Early Adopters: Manufacturers Don't Care About You.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

In the face of AbEx's big scale, open gestures and abstract purity, he cultivated tightly wound geometries that were fiery in color, finely diced and full of hints of disjointed figures and faces.

The New York Times

8. Use open gestures.

Forbes

Over the years, I've noticed that parties are more likely to reach an agreement if they begin a negotiation by displaying engaged body language (smiling, nodding, mirroring, open gestures, etc.).

Forbes

Individuals with open gestures are perceived more positively and are more persuasive than those with closed gestures (arms crossed, hands hidden or held close to the body, etc). Also, if you hold your arms at waist level, and gesture within that plane, most audiences will perceive you as assured and credible.

Forbes

Use open gestures above the waist as you speak.

HuffPost

Aim for small, controlled gestures to indicate leadership and confidence, and open gestures -- like spreading your arms apart or showing the palms of your hands -- to communicate that you have nothing to hide. 3. Watching the clock while talking to someone is a clear sign of disrespect, impatience, and inflated ego.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "open gesture" to describe actions or expressions that are clearly intended to be welcoming, inclusive, or sincere. Ensure the context makes the positive intent clear.

Common error

Avoid using "open gesture" when the action could be misinterpreted as insincere or manipulative. Ensure the context supports a genuine interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "open gesture" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "open" modifies the noun "gesture". It generally refers to an action or expression that is transparent, welcoming, or indicative of goodwill. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "open gesture" is a useful way to describe actions or expressions that signal goodwill, acceptance, or transparency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and well-suited for various contexts, though less frequent than some synonyms. When using this phrase, consider whether the intent is clear to the audience and if a more specific term, such as "friendly gesture" or "conciliatory gesture", might better convey the intended meaning. While suitable for general usage, awareness of potential misinterpretations is crucial to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

friendly gesture

Specifies the open gesture as being explicitly friendly.

welcoming gesture

Emphasizes the aspect of making someone feel welcome.

inclusive gesture

Highlights the aspect of including others.

generous gesture

Focuses on the magnanimous nature of the gesture.

conciliatory gesture

Highlights the purpose of reconciliation.

overt act

Replaces "gesture" with a more formal term for an action.

transparent action

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of hidden motives.

public declaration

Shifts the focus to a verbal expression of intent.

demonstration of goodwill

Replaces "gesture" with a longer phrase specifying its nature.

show of sincerity

Emphasizes the genuineness of the gesture.

FAQs

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

You can use "open gesture" to describe a physical action or a policy that signals goodwill or acceptance. For instance, "The company's decision to offer flexible work hours was seen as an "open gesture" to its employees."

What are some alternatives to "open gesture"?

Some alternatives include "friendly gesture", "welcoming gesture", or "demonstration of goodwill", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "open gesture" formal or informal?

"Open gesture" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though the specific situation should guide your choice. In highly formal settings, consider alternatives like "overt act" or "public declaration" for added gravitas.

What does it mean to respond to something with an "open gesture"?

Responding with an "open gesture" typically means reacting in a way that is accepting, understanding, and non-defensive. It implies a willingness to engage positively and build rapport.