opening the gate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "opening the gate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is physically or metaphorically allowing access or entry to a space or opportunity. Example: "After much anticipation, the ceremony began with the mayor opening the gate to the new park."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Stringer considered opening the gate, then reconsidered.

The New Yorker

Rattle the fence before opening the gate.

The Washington Post

David Mermelstein's article "Opening the Gate for Black Opera Singers" [Feb.

The New York Times - Arts

"I like that people don't know how to get in," Mr. Zielinski says, opening the gate and driving a reporter in with his Jeep.

The New York Times

Reading Ulysses was like someone opening the gate and saying: if you have the virtuosity, there is nothing you cannot do with this form.

The Guardian - Books

That provision had to be renewed annually, and in 2011, it was dropped from an omnibus spending bill that President Obama signed into law, opening the gate for horse slaughter to resume.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"Ladies and gentlemen, we will soon be opening the gates.

The Guardian - Sport

Open the gate!".

Independent

My father opened the gate.

The New Yorker

He hadn't opened the gate.

The New Yorker

She opened the gate and screamed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "opening the gate" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes what the gate represents. For example, "Adopting this new technology is like "opening the gate" to unprecedented levels of efficiency."

Common error

Avoid using "opening the gate" without clearly defining the gate's symbolic meaning. Vague references can confuse the audience and weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opening the gate" typically functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun in a sentence. It can also be part of a verb phrase, indicating an action in progress, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "opening the gate" is a versatile and commonly used expression, functioning primarily as a gerund phrase. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently across various sources, particularly in news and media. Its versatility allows for both literal and metaphorical applications, signifying access, initiation, or opportunity. While generally neutral, its connotations depend heavily on context. For effective writing, define the metaphorical "gate" to ensure clarity. With its widespread use and varied applications, mastering the art of using "opening the gate" can significantly enhance one's communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unlatching the gate

Focuses on the physical action of releasing the gate's latch.

unlocking the gate

Emphasizes the removal of a lock to allow access.

accessing the portal

Implies a more formal or technological entry point.

granting entry

Highlights the permission aspect of allowing someone to pass.

initiating the process

Shifts the focus to starting a procedure or sequence of events.

paving the way

Suggests clearing obstacles for future progress.

commencing the procedure

A more formal way of saying starting a process.

beginning the operation

Refers to the start of a planned action.

starting the sequence

Indicates the commencement of an ordered set of actions.

launching the initiative

Emphasizes the beginning of a project or endeavor.

FAQs

How can I use "opening the gate" in a sentence?

You can use "opening the gate" both literally, referring to the physical action of opening a gate, or metaphorically, to describe the initiation of a new opportunity or process. For instance, "Opening the gate allowed the sheep to graze freely" (literal) or "His discovery was like "opening the gate" to a new era of scientific progress" (metaphorical).

What is a similar phrase to "opening the gate"?

Similar phrases include "unlatching the gate" (if referring to a physical gate), "granting entry", or "initiating the process" (if used metaphorically).

Can "opening the gate" have negative connotations?

While generally positive, "opening the gate" can imply unintended consequences if the gate leads to something undesirable. The specific context determines the connotation.

Is it grammatically correct to use "opening the gate" as a noun?

Yes, "opening the gate" functions as a gerund phrase, which can act as a noun in a sentence. For example, "Opening the gate was a symbolic act of freedom."