present an opening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "present an opening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of creating or offering an opportunity or chance for something, such as a discussion or a proposal. Example: "During the meeting, she was able to present an opening for collaboration between the two departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Fewer teenagers, then, present an opening.

The New York Times

But the relatively conciliatory statements by Russia's president, Dmitri A. Medvedev, present an opening to the administration that could turn out to yield little.

The New York Times

One specific concern is that it will present an opening for a constitutional change that would allow Mr. Karzai to run for a third term.

The New York Times

Tad Devine, a longtime consultant to Democratic presidential candidates, agreed that 2016 might present an opening to Sanders, a year in which his message could resonate.

The Guardian

That could present an opening for the Australian media tycoon Rupert Murdoch, who holds a stake in Kirch, to take over part of the business and gain a long-sought foothold in the German market.

The New York Times

By John Cassidy July 18 , 2016As the Republican National Convention kicks off in Cleveland, the perception that the world is in trouble could present an opening for the Party.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Undoubtedly, Vonn's absence presented an opening for others.

The New York Times - Sports

NEWARK Prudential Hall, New Jersey Performing Arts Center New Jersey Symphony Orchestra presents an opening night event featuring Frederica von Stade, mezzo-soprano.

The New York Times

David Frum (although he is often at odds with other conservative thinkers) said he thought the debate presented an opening for Jon M. Huntsman Jr.

The New York Times

Russia's warning after the United Nations vote that Mr. Assad should carry out reforms and restore peace or face "some kinds of decisions" from Russia presents an opening.

The New York Times

The retirement of Representative Ralph Regula after 18 terms presented an opening for Mr. Boccieri, a centrist state senator who had been a minor-league outfielder and an Air Force Reserve pilot with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider alternative phrasing like "create an opportunity" or "offer a possibility" if you need to emphasize active creation or potential outcomes rather than a presented situation.

Common error

Avoid using "present an opening" when you actually mean to say that you are 'providing' or 'creating' an opportunity. "Present" implies that the opening already exists and is simply being revealed, whereas "provide" suggests active creation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "present an opening" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of making an opportunity or possibility apparent or available. Ludwig AI supports this through numerous real-world examples, demonstrating its widespread and accepted use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "present an opening" is a grammatically sound and neutrally-registered expression used to describe a situation that creates an opportunity. Ludwig AI analysis shows the term is most commonly used in News & Media sources. Be mindful of confusing "present" with "provide"; the former highlights an existing opportunity, while the latter implies active creation. Common alternatives include "create an opportunity" or "offer a possibility". Consider your intended emphasis when making a selection. The phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create an opportunity

Focuses on the active creation of a chance, rather than simply highlighting one.

offer a possibility

Suggests a potential outcome without necessarily implying a direct action.

afford a chance

Emphasizes the provision of an opportunity, often due to specific circumstances.

provide an avenue

Highlights a pathway or means to achieve something.

open the door

A more figurative expression suggesting the beginning of an opportunity.

establish a foothold

Implies gaining an initial advantage or position.

pave the way

Focuses on making it easier for something to happen in the future.

unlock potential

Highlights the revealing or accessing of latent possibilities.

lay the groundwork

Stresses the preparation required for future success.

foster development

Implies nurturing or encouraging growth and progress.

FAQs

How can "present an opening" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "present an opening" is used to describe a situation or event that creates a new opportunity or possibility. For example, "The conciliatory statements by Russia's president "present an opening" to the administration".

What are some alternatives to "present an opening"?

Alternatives include "create an opportunity", "offer a possibility", or "provide an avenue". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "present an opening" or "offer an opening"?

While both are grammatically correct, "present an opening" suggests that the opening is already there and is merely being revealed, while "offer an opening" implies more active creation or provision of the opportunity.

What's the difference between "present an opening" and "create an opening"?

"Present an opening" implies highlighting an existing opportunity, while "create an opening" implies actively making the opportunity exist. The subtle difference lies in whether the opportunity was pre-existing or newly formed.