open the floor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "open the floor" is used in written English and is used to refer to the beginning of a discussion or presentation.
For example: "The CEO opened the floor for questions from the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

So instead, I open the floor to you.

The New York Times

After all powers have presented, open the floor to discussion.

The New York Times

After a brief discussion of the book, they open the floor for discussion.

University of California, Berkeley

Are there other questions from reporters before I open the floor to questions from others?

Yale University

Following her lecture, Dean Browillagin will open the floor to questions from the audience.

Harvard University

AW: I am now going to open the floor to questions.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

And back in my Sky Suite, I could open the floor-to-ceiling windows to watch the jets roar down the runway, only a few hundred yards away.

Independent

After Miles made an opening statement, the moderator opened the floor to questions.

The New York Times

After their opening remarks, Drell and Minor opened the floor for questions and discussion.

Stanford University

Katsuyama opened the floor for questions.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then Ross opened the floor to questions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "open the floor" when you want to formally invite an audience or group to participate in a discussion, ask questions, or offer suggestions after a presentation or initial remarks.

Common error

While "open the floor" is versatile, it might sound slightly out of place in very casual settings. In informal conversations, consider using simpler phrases like "what do you think?" or "any questions?" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "open the floor" functions as an idiomatic expression used to transition from a presentation or structured talk to an interactive session. It signals the commencement of a period where participants can engage in discussion, ask questions, or offer comments. Ludwig AI confirms its role in facilitating audience participation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "open the floor" is a common and generally neutrally-registered expression used to formally invite an audience or group to participate in a discussion, ask questions, or offer suggestions. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct and widely employed across different contexts, mostly Academia and News & Media. Alternatives such as "begin the discussion" or "invite contributions" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. When using "open the floor", ensure that the setting is appropriate for such an invitation and that you are prepared to manage the ensuing discussion. While versatile, it's less suited for casual, informal conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin the discussion

Emphasizes the commencement of a conversation or debate.

invite contributions

Focuses on soliciting input or ideas from others.

start the Q&A session

Specifically refers to initiating a question-and-answer segment.

yield the platform

Suggests relinquishing control to allow others to speak.

make way for discussion

Indicates transitioning to a period of open dialogue.

allow for questions

Highlights the provision for inquiries from the audience.

call for suggestions

Directly asks for recommendations or ideas.

turn to the audience

Shifts focus towards the listeners for their involvement.

give an opportunity to speak

Provides a chance for individuals to express their views.

recognize speakers

Acknowledges and permits individuals to address the assembly.

FAQs

How can I use "open the floor" in a sentence?

You can use "open the floor" to invite participation, for example, "After the presentation, the speaker will "open the floor" for questions."

What does it mean to "open the floor"?

"Open the floor" means to "begin the discussion" and allow audience members to participate.

What's a more formal way to say "open the floor"?

A more formal alternative could be "I now "invite contributions" from the audience" or "The session is now open for discussion."

Is it appropriate to use "open the floor" in written communication?

Yes, "open the floor" can be used in written communication, especially in formal reports or meeting minutes, to indicate when audience participation was invited. However, ensure the register matches your overall tone.