What are the definitions of “open up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “open up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb open up is to start talking freely about something, especially personal feelings or emotions. It is often used when someone is encouraged to share their thoughts or emotions with others.
What are the different verb forms of “open up”?
| Root Verb | open up |
| Third Person Singular Present | opens up |
| Present Participle | opening up |
| Simple Past | opened up |
| Past Participle | opened up |
Example
She doesn't like to open up about her feelings.
Example
He opens up to his friends when he's feeling down.
Example
She is opening up to her therapist about her childhood.
Example
He opened up to his partner about his fears last night.
Example
She had never opened up to anyone like that before.
What kind of phrasal verb is “open up”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“open up” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She finally opened up about her feelings.
Example
He opened up to his friends about his problems.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“open up” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She finally opened up about her feelings.
Example
He opened up to his friends about his problems.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “open up”?
Open up opportunities
To create new possibilities or chances for growth, development, or success.
Example
Learning a new language can open up many job opportunities.
Good things to know
Does “open up” have an informal or formal tone?
Open up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business discussions or therapy sessions.
