Leave Open – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever kept a job offer on the table while waiting for another? Or told a friend, “Let’s keep our plans flexible for now”? In English, you might say you want to leave it open. This practical phrase means to keep something undecided, available, or not finalized—so you can act later if needed.
What Does “Leave Open” Mean?
“Leave open” means to not close, finalize, or decide something yet—so it remains possible or available. Think of it like leaving a door unlocked: you can walk through it later if you choose. The phrase isn’t about physical doors; it’s a clear, flexible way to say, “Let’s not commit yet.”
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or professional conversations when talking about plans, options, decisions, or opportunities you want to keep available. It’s common in scheduling, job hunting, travel, or negotiations. This phrase is neutral and widely used—great for everyday and workplace English.
Example Sentences
- Let’s leave the date open until we know everyone’s schedule.
- She left the job offer open while she waited for a response from her dream company.
- We’re leaving the position open in case a better candidate applies.
- Don’t book the hotel yet—let’s leave our options open.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Should we reserve the cabin for July?”
Jamie: “Not yet. Let’s leave it open in case the group changes their minds.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t confuse “leave open” with physical actions like not closing a window (unless used metaphorically). In conversational English, it almost always refers to decisions or opportunities—not literal objects.
❌ Don’t say: “I left the fridge open—it’s a disaster!” (That’s literal, not idiomatic.)
✅ Do say: “I’m leaving my schedule open next week in case you need help.”
Practice Tip
Next time you’re unsure about a plan, say: “Let’s leave it open for now.” It’s a natural, polite way to stay flexible in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “leave open” to keep your options flexible and your plans stress-free! It’s a calm, practical phrase that helps you navigate uncertainty with confidence. Keep using it—and remember, sometimes the best choice is not to choose just yet.