wide open

USAGE SUMMARY

"wide open" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a wide open space or a wide open area, and it can also be used in other contexts to describe a lack of restriction or a feeling of freedom. For example, "The opportunity was wide open for me to make a new start in life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was wide open.

The New Yorker

He was wide open.

The New Yorker

It is wide open".

The New York Times

He ran wide open.

The New Yorker

It's wide open.

The New York Times

The race was wide open.

The Guardian

"He's wide open to possibilities".

The New Yorker

"Keep your mind wide open".

Independent

The race seemed wide open.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's a wide-open election.

The New Yorker

It's a wide-open field.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing opportunities or possibilities, use "wide open" to convey a sense of unlimited potential. For example, "The job market is wide open for skilled professionals."

Common error

Avoid using "wide open" in highly formal or technical writing where more precise or professional language is expected. Opt for alternatives like "unrestricted" or "fully accessible" for enhanced clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wide open" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to describe a state of being fully open, exposed, or unrestricted. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and frequently used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "wide open" is a versatile adjective phrase, frequently employed to describe states of accessibility, exposure, or boundless opportunity. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically sound and widespread across various domains, especially in News & Media. While it is most appropriate for neutral to informal contexts, its meaning can be adapted for more formal scenarios with synonyms like "unrestricted" or "completely accessible". Its function ranges from literal descriptions of physical space to metaphorical representations of career potentials, making it a powerful tool in both descriptive and persuasive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely accessible

Focuses on the ease of access or availability.

without limits

Emphasizes the lack of boundaries or restrictions.

fully exposed

Emphasizes the vulnerability and lack of protection.

unrestrictedly available

Focuses on the absence of limitations or constraints.

unprotected

Stresses the lack of safety or security.

totally receptive

Highlights openness to new ideas or influences.

undefended

Emphasizes the lack of defense or protection.

exposed

Similar to "fully exposed", but with a slightly broader meaning.

vulnerable

Highlights the unprotected state.

clear

Implies a state of being unobstructed or free from obstacles.

FAQs

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

"Wide open" can describe a physical state (e.g., "The door was wide open") or a metaphorical situation (e.g., "The opportunity is wide open").

What are some synonyms for "wide open"?

Alternatives include "completely accessible", "fully exposed", or "totally receptive", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "widely open" instead of "wide open"?

While "widely open" can be understood, "wide open" is the more common and idiomatic expression.

When is it appropriate to use "wide open" metaphorically?

Use "wide open" metaphorically to describe situations where possibilities are abundant or restrictions are minimal, such as "The field of research is "wide open" for innovation".