open to compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "open to compromise" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to express the willingness to reach an agreement while conceding on some points. For example: "The two sides have been in negotiations for weeks, but it seems that neither side is willing to budge. Hopefully, if both sides are open to compromise, they can find a resolution soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm open to compromise".

The New York Times

I am open to compromise".

The New Yorker

Be open to compromise.

The Guardian

I am open to compromise," Obama said.

The Guardian

Mr. O'Connor seems open to compromise.

The New York Times

Mr. Allawi needs to be open to compromise.

The New York Times

The Bush team, too, has proved surprisingly open to compromise.

The Economist

The hive mind, it seems, is open to compromise.

The New York Times

However, he says he is open to compromise.

The New York Times

And the administration must be open to compromise.

The New York Times

As I've said before, I'm open to compromise and I'm open to new ideas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "open to compromise", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific issues or points are negotiable. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "open to compromise" if there are non-negotiable deal-breakers. This can mislead partners and damage trust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "open to compromise" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of mind or willingness. It indicates a disposition towards flexibility and agreement. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

12%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "open to compromise" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a willingness to negotiate and make concessions to reach an agreement. As indicated by Ludwig, its prevalence in news and media, coupled with its presence in academic texts, signals its broad applicability and neutral register. While synonyms like ""willing to negotiate"" or "amenable to discussion" offer subtle variations, the core message remains consistent: a readiness to find common ground. It's important to be genuine in the expression of willingness as misleading partners can backfire. Based on the high frequency and wide range of authoritative sources Ludwig shows, it is safe to say that it is a valuable expression for writers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ready to meet halfway

Suggests a balanced concession from both sides to reach an agreement.

willing to negotiate

Focuses on the active process of discussion and bargaining.

prepared to concede

Focuses on the willingness to give up certain points for the sake of an agreement.

amenable to discussion

Highlights openness to conversation and consideration of different viewpoints.

agreeable to adjustment

Focuses on being willing to modify plans or positions.

flexible in approach

Emphasizes adaptability and a non-rigid methodology.

receptive to suggestions

Highlights openness to new ideas and recommendations from others.

accommodating to differing views

Emphasizes the ability to consider and respect diverse perspectives.

disposed to conciliation

Implies a proactive stance towards resolving disputes and restoring harmony.

susceptible to persuasion

Highlights vulnerability and openness to being convinced by reasoned arguments.

FAQs

How can I use "open to compromise" in a sentence?

You can use "open to compromise" to describe a willingness to negotiate and make concessions in order to reach an agreement. For instance, "Both parties need to be "willing to negotiate" and "ready to meet halfway" to resolve the dispute."

What are some alternatives to saying "open to compromise"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""willing to negotiate"", "amenable to discussion", or "flexible in approach", each carrying slightly different nuances.

Is it better to say "open to compromise" or "willing to compromise"?

Both "open to compromise" and "willing to compromise" are acceptable and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis. They are largely interchangeable.

What does it mean to be "open to compromise" in a negotiation?

In a negotiation, being "open to compromise" means you are willing to consider alternative solutions and make concessions to reach an agreement that is acceptable to all parties involved.