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Phrasal verbs "close up" vs "open up"

Differences between close up and open up

Close up means to shut something that was open, or to become closed. It can also mean to stop doing business or to stop operating. Open up means to make something that was closed accessible or available, or to become more open and communicative.

Meanings and Definitions: close up vs open up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Close up

  • 1Completely close something.

    They CLOSE UP the building after everyone has left.

  • 2Join together.

    The leaves CLOSE UP when it rains.

  • 3Move closer together.

    They CLOSED UP when they saw the gang coming towards them.

Open up

  • 1Start to talk freely about something.

    She hates to OPEN UP and discuss her feelings.

  • 2Open a shop or business for the day.

    They OPEN UP at seven in the morning.

  • 3Allow goods into a market.

    Before they joined the WTO, they had to OPEN UP their markets.

Usage Examples: close up, open up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

close up

Example

Please close up the windows before you leave the house.

Example

She closes up the store every night at 9 pm.

open up

Example

She doesn't like to open up about her feelings.

Example

He opens up to his friends when he's feeling down.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Close up

shut down

To close or stop operating a business, organization, or machine.

Example

The factory had to shut down due to the lack of raw materials.

seal off

To close or block an entrance or exit with a physical barrier.

Example

The police had to seal off the area after the explosion to investigate the crime scene.

draw to a close

To come to an end or finish gradually.

Example

The concert drew to a close with a beautiful rendition of the national anthem.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Open up

share one's thoughts

To express or reveal one's feelings, opinions, or ideas to someone else.

Example

After a few drinks, he started to share his thoughts about life, love, and happiness.

break the ice

To initiate or start a conversation or interaction with someone, especially in a new or awkward situation.

Example

She tried to break the ice with her new colleagues by asking them about their hobbies and interests.

open the door

To create an opportunity or possibility for something to happen or exist.

Example

His promotion opened the door for him to travel more and explore new cultures.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in close up vs open up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: close up or open up?

In everyday conversation, people use open up more often than close up. This is because open up is used for a wider range of situations, such as opening a door, sharing feelings, or starting a conversation. Close up is less common in daily conversation, but it's still used for closing things like windows, shops, or businesses.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of close up and open up

Close up and open up are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of close up and open up

The tone of close up and open up can differ based on context. Close up often carries a final or negative tone when related to shutting down or closing something, while open up typically has a positive and inviting tone, especially when referring to sharing or communicating.

close up & open up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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