open up — 3 meanings

One phrase, 3 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb3 meanings

open up

talk honestly make access possible expand opportunities

Meaning 1 · most common

talk honestly

open up to sb/about sth
informal

To start talking more honestly or freely about your feelings, thoughts, or experiences.

How oftenCommon

LevelB2

Used inMostly spoken

Examples

It took a while, but eventually he opened up about his worries.

A: You seem quiet today. Is everything okay?
B: I just need some time to open up about what's on my mind.

Common mistake

Not: It took him a while to open up ~~with~~ me.

Say: It took him a while to open up to me.

You 'open up TO someone', not 'with'.

More on “talk honestly”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In my opinion, it's important for people to open up to their friends when they're feeling stressed, because talking can really help.

Tell it apart

He finally opened up about his past.

talked honestly

He finally owned up to it.

admitted he did it

Goes with

open up + to someone

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Next meaning: make access possible

Meaning 2

make access possible

open up sth

To make something available, accessible, or ready for use; to allow entry or opportunity.

How oftenCommon

LevelB1

Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The new train line will open up the region to more tourists.

A: When does the café open up in the morning?
B: They usually open up at 7 a.m.

Common mistake

Not: The cafe opens up at 8.

Say: The cafe opens at 8.

For daily opening hours just say 'open' — 'open up' adds the feel of unlocking for the first time of day (informal).

More on “make access possible”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

Technology has opened up many new ways for people to work from home, which was not possible in the past.

Tell it apart

The reforms opened up the market.

made it accessible

The ban closed off the market.

shut it to outsiders

Goes with

open up + access

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Next meaning: expand opportunities

Meaning 3

expand opportunities

open up sth opportunities/possibilities/markets/avenues for sb/sth

To create or increase new possibilities, opportunities, or areas for development, especially in a figurative or abstract sense (e.g. markets, options, perspectives).

How oftenNow and then

LevelC1

Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The new trade agreement is expected to open up significant opportunities for local exporters.

A: Do you think studying abroad really makes a difference?
B: Absolutely—it can open up a whole range of career options you might not have at home.

Common mistake

Not: It opened up me new ~~opportunities.~~

Say: It opened up new opportunities for me.

Put the beneficiary with 'for': 'open up opportunities FOR me'.

More on “expand opportunities”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

Implementing renewable energy technologies could open up new avenues for economic growth in developing countries.

Tell it apart

The grant opened up new possibilities.

created opportunities

The cuts closed off our options.

shut them down

Goes with

open up + opportunity

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talk honestly make access possible expand opportunities