opening the window

USAGE SUMMARY

"opening the window" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it any time you need to refer to the action of opening a window. For example, "After lunch, I opened the window to let in some fresh air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

One of the advantages of opening the window is, it's almost like a soft opening.

The New York Times

"My parents are medical researchers," she says, opening the window.

The New Yorker

They're opening the window to see what's outside right now".

The New York Times - Arts

Opening the window: the case for carrier and perinatal screening for spinal muscular atrophy.

Nature

"I remember opening the window and looking into that Dover garden – it was so tranquil".

The Guardian

"It's like you're renting a house, opening the window and throwing the cash away," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

I opened the window.

The New Yorker

The woman opened the window.

The New Yorker

Open the window instead.

The Guardian

"I'll open the window.

The New Yorker

Ease open the window.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "opening the window" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates that you are referring to creating an opportunity or gaining insight, rather than the literal act.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "opening the window" always has positive connotations. Consider the context; it might imply vulnerability or exposure to unwanted elements if not carefully framed.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "opening the window" is as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun or part of a verb phrase. It describes the action of making a window open, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2.5%

Social Media

2.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "opening the window" is a common and generally correct expression, as affirmed by Ludwig. It can be used literally to describe the action of opening a window or metaphorically to indicate creating opportunities or providing fresh perspectives. It appears most frequently in news media and science contexts. When using it metaphorically, be mindful of the context to ensure it conveys the intended meaning. Alternatives include "cracking the window" for a slight opening or "ventilating the space" when emphasizing air circulation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cracking the window

Refers to opening the window slightly, focusing on a smaller opening.

raising the window

Specifically refers to lifting a window, especially a sash window.

sliding the window open

Describes the action of opening a window that slides horizontally.

unsealing the window

Emphasizes breaking a seal or initial closure, implying a fresh start.

ventilating the space

Focuses on the purpose of opening the window, which is to provide fresh air.

airing out the room

Similar to ventilating, emphasizing the removal of stale air.

letting in fresh air

Highlights the result of opening the window, which is the introduction of fresh air.

providing ventilation

A more formal way of expressing the action's purpose of creating airflow.

unstopping the window

Emphasizes removing an obstacle to allow opening, giving access.

revealing the outside

Highlights what becomes visible when the window is opened, focusing on the view.

FAQs

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

You can use "opening the window" literally, such as "She was opening the window to let in some air", or metaphorically, like "The new policy is about opening the window to fresh ideas".

What are some alternatives to "opening the window"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "cracking the window" for a small opening, or "ventilating the space" if the focus is on air circulation.

When is it appropriate to use "opening the window" metaphorically?

It is appropriate to use it metaphorically when you want to convey the idea of creating an opportunity, providing access, or introducing new perspectives, as in "opening the window of opportunity".

Is there a difference between "opening the window" and "airing out the room"?

"Opening the window" describes the action, while "airing out the room" focuses on the purpose or result of that action which is to freshen the air.