opened the window

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "opened the window" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to describe an action that someone took to physically open a window. Example: I was feeling hot and stuffy in the room, so I opened the window to let in some fresh air.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

I opened the window.

The New Yorker

The woman opened the window.

The New Yorker

He opened the window and he painted".

The New York Times - Travel

Plascencia opened the window and breathed contentedly.

The New Yorker

He opened the window and waved.

The New York Times - Food

Staying low, I opened the window farther.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Open the window instead.

The Guardian

"I'll open the window.

The New Yorker

Ease open the window.

The Guardian

That opens the window to corruption.

The Economist

5. Open the window.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene, use "opened the window" to establish setting or a character's action, for example: "Feeling the heat, she opened the window and a wave of city noise flooded in."

Common error

Avoid repetitive use of "opened the window" in close proximity. Vary your descriptions by focusing on the effects of opening it (e.g., the breeze, the sounds) rather than just the action itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opened the window" functions primarily as a declarative statement describing a completed action. According to Ludwig AI, it's a common way to describe someone physically opening a window. The examples confirm its use in narrating events or describing a scene.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "opened the window" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the act of physically opening a window. Ludwig AI confirms its standard usage, and the numerous examples provided illustrate its versatility across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While straightforward, it's essential to vary sentence structure in writing to avoid repetition. Alternatives like "slid the window open" or "threw open the window" can add nuance, as can focusing on the effect of the action rather than just the action itself. This simple phrase, however, remains a clear and effective way to convey a specific action in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

threw open the window

Emphasizes a more forceful or sudden opening of the window.

slid the window open

Specifies the type of window and manner of opening.

pushed the window up

Describes the motion of opening a vertically sliding window.

unlatched the window and opened it

Highlights the action of releasing a latch before opening.

created an opening in the window

Focuses on the result of opening the window—an open space.

unsealed the window

Emphasizes breaking a seal before opening.

disengaged the window lock

Focuses on the action of unlocking the window.

vented the room

Describes the goal of opening a window: to air out the room.

let some air in

Describes the result of opening a window: fresh air entering.

allowed ventilation

Focuses on the permission or possibility of air flow due to opening.

FAQs

How can I use "opened the window" in a sentence?

You can use "opened the window" to describe a simple action, for example: "I was feeling hot, so I "opened the window" to let in some fresh air."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "opened the window"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "threw open the window" to emphasize a sudden action or "slid the window open" if the window is a sliding one.

Is it grammatically correct to say "opened the window"?

Yes, "opened the window" is grammatically correct and follows standard English sentence structure. It's a straightforward transitive verb phrase indicating the action of opening a window.

What's the difference between "opened the window" and "vented the room"?

"Opened the window" describes the physical action of opening a window. "Vented the room" focuses on the purpose or result of the action, which is to allow air to circulate.