secure an opening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secure an opening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to obtaining or creating an opportunity, often in a competitive or strategic context. Example: "In order to advance our project, we need to secure an opening with potential investors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But not all Hollywood films are able to secure an opening in the world's most populous nation, and it remains unusual for big-budget movies to make it into the black without a healthy return from the US heartland.

The Guardian - Film

Alex Hales, Notts That the right-hander did not secure an opening slot for England's World Cup campaign was a source of frustration for many, given his outstanding talent that shone in the Royal London Cup last summer with three centuries and a strike-rate of 120 in just five matches.

The Guardian - Sport

Hamas does not have to recognise Israel nor indeed decommission its armed forces, to secure an opening of the borders.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Northampton's depleted side saw the game out to secure an opening-day victory.

BBC

The crowd at London's O2 Arena were treated to a titanic decider as the clock ticked and both men gave absolutely everything to secure an opening-day win.

BBC

Rain had delayed the start of day four until 14 55 BST, but that was still enough time for Lancashire to secure an overdue opening win, leaving 44 overs to score 144 runs.

BBC

Grix would have the final say, making the most of Brough's sensational break to secure a superb opening-day win for Huddersfield.

BBC

Finally, almost a year later, it secured an American opening date, in May.

The Guardian - Film

Add Velcro to secure any openings, if desired.

WikiHow

Also make sure to secure any openings between the attic and the rest of your home.

WikiHow

The rescuers ultimately reached an isolated company of marines that had 80 or so men remaining, and secured a mountain opening called the Toktong Pass, enabling two regiments as well to move through it and escape.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "secure an opening" in a competitive context, clearly define what the opening is and why it is important to secure it. This provides context and emphasizes the significance of the achievement.

Common error

Avoid using "secure an opening" excessively in the passive voice (e.g., "an opening was secured"). Instead, opt for the active voice to create a more direct and impactful statement. For instance, prefer "the team secured an opening" over "an opening was secured by the team".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secure an opening" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of obtaining or creating a chance or opportunity. Ludwig confirms this usage as correct and common in written English. The phrase highlights a proactive effort to gain access or advantage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Sport

20%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "secure an opening" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that signifies the act of obtaining or creating an opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Sport contexts. When using this phrase, it is important to define the nature of the opening and its strategic importance. Alternative phrases like "obtain a chance" or "gain an opportunity" can be used for variety. However, to avoid being overly passive, use active voice when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obtain a chance

Focuses on the acquisition of a possibility.

gain an opportunity

Emphasizes benefiting from a favorable circumstance.

create an opportunity

Highlights the act of generating a new possibility.

arrange a possibility

Implies a degree of planning and organization to facilitate.

guarantee an opportunity

Stresses the certainty of a potential path or prospect being available.

ensure a possibility

Underscores making certain that a chance exists or continues to exist.

establish a chance

Focuses on setting up or founding a new opportunity.

facilitate an opening

Highlights making it easier for an opportunity to arise.

carve out a niche

Implies creating a unique space or opportunity for oneself.

unlock a prospect

Suggests revealing or making accessible a previously hidden opportunity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "secure an opening"?

You can use alternatives like "obtain a chance", "gain an opportunity", or "create an opportunity" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "secure an opportunity" or "secure an opening"?

Both "secure an opportunity" and "secure an opening" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the context. "Opening" often refers to a specific, limited opportunity, while "opportunity" is more general.

What does "secure an opening" mean in a business context?

In a business context, "secure an opening" typically means to successfully create or obtain a chance for advancement, investment, or market entry. It suggests a strategic effort to gain a favorable position.

How to use "secure an opening" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "In order to advance our project, we need to "secure an opening" with potential investors." Another example is: "The company worked diligently to "secure an opening" in the competitive market."