slid open

USAGE SUMMARY

"slid open" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe something that has been moved or opened smoothly, often referring to doors or windows. Example: "The door slid open with a soft creak." Alternative expressions include "opened smoothly" and "parted quietly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Then a window slid open.

The New Yorker

Doors slid open.

The New York Times

The doors slid open.

The Guardian - Sport

He slid open the small window.

The New Yorker

"How's it going?" The door slid open.

The New York Times

She cautiously slid open the door.

The New Yorker

Somewhere a cash tray slid open, coins clanked.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

She leans down and slides open a drawer.

The New York Times

In an instant there's the ping, and then the doors slide open.

The New Yorker

Folding up the bed and sliding open the doors makes room for dining or entertaining.

The New York Times

Its doors slide open, and the children spill happy and laughing into a verdant field.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slid open" to describe the smooth, lateral movement of doors, windows, or drawers, especially when emphasizing ease or quietness.

Common error

Avoid using "slid open" for objects that hinge, swing, or are pushed open. Reserve it for actions involving a smooth, lateral movement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slid open" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a phrasal verb. It describes the action of something (typically a door, window, or drawer) moving smoothly to an open position. Ludwig's examples show it commonly describing doors and windows opening.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slid open" is a common and grammatically sound phrasal verb used to describe the smooth, lateral movement of an object into an open position. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse writing styles. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's best utilized for objects that move via sliding, avoiding its application to hinged or pushed objects. For alternatives, consider "glided open" or "moved open" to subtly alter the descriptive emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

glided open

Emphasizes a smooth and effortless opening motion.

slid apart

Focuses on the separation of parts as they open.

moved open

A more general term for the action of opening by sliding.

retracted to open

Implies that something pulled back to reveal an opening.

parted smoothly

Highlights the seamless nature of the opening.

rolled open

Describes an opening where something rolls to the side.

swung open

Suggests a hinged opening, rather than a sliding one, but shares the opening action.

pushed aside

Indicates an opening achieved by pushing something to the side.

unveiled itself

A more figurative way to describe something revealing itself by moving aside.

came ajar

Describes a slight or partial sliding open.

FAQs

How can I use "slid open" in a sentence?

You can use "slid open" to describe the movement of doors, windows, or drawers. For example, "The door "slid open" revealing a hidden room."

What are some alternatives to "slid open"?

Alternatives include "glided open", "moved open", or "parted smoothly", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "slid open" in formal writing?

Yes, "slid open" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in descriptive contexts. However, consider if a more precise verb might be more effective in some situations.

What's the difference between "slid open" and "swung open"?

"Slid open" describes a smooth, lateral movement, while "swung open" describes a hinged, arc-shaped movement. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the physical action.