open out

open out — phrasal verb

  • open outbase form
  • opens out3rd person singular
  • opening out-ing form
  • opened outpast simple

1. when something that was folded, closed, or bundled together spreads out and beco

1.片語動詞不及物B1
釋義

when something that was folded, closed, or bundled together spreads out and becomes larger or wider.

例句

The narrow footpath opened out into a wide road near the market.

open out into [place] — expands to reveal something

Zuri unfolded the paper fan and watched it open out in her hands.

同義詞
  • unfold

    more specific to paper, cloth, or limbs; not used for paths or flowers

  • spread out

    same meaning but often used with a direct object (spread out a blanket) whereas 'open out' is intransitive

  • expand

    more formal; used for any increase in size, not just from a closed state

反義詞
  • fold up

    the opposite action for objects like chairs, maps, umbrellas

  • close

    general opposite, but 'close' is more common for doors, containers

文法句型

open out

open out into [noun phrase]

用法筆記

The subject is typically a folded, rolled, or compressed object such as a map, umbrella, flower, chair, or path. To describe opening a door or window, use 'open' alone.

常見錯誤

❌She opened out the door to let in fresh air.
✅She opened the door to let in fresh air.
💡'open out' describes something expanding or unfolding, not a hinged door or window.

2. to start expressing your personal thoughts, feelings, or experiences honestly, e

2.片語動詞不及物B2
釋義

to start expressing your personal thoughts, feelings, or experiences honestly, especially after being shy, quiet, or guarded.

例句

In the support group, Karim slowly opened out about his childhood.

open out about [topic]

Andrés never opened out at work, but with his family he talked freely.

contrast between contexts

同義詞
  • open up

    more common in American English; slightly more informal

  • speak freely

    emphasises the lack of restriction rather than the emotional shift

  • come out of one's shell

    idiom; implies a lasting personality change rather than a single conversation

反義詞
  • clam up

    informal; means to stop talking or refuse to speak

  • withdraw

    more formal; pulling away from communication

文法句型

open out about [topic]

open out to [person]

用法筆記

Frequently followed by 'about' (topic) or 'to' (listener). This sense is more common in British English and in contexts involving therapy, counselling, or close personal relationships.

常見錯誤

❌He opened out the problem to his teacher.
✅He opened out about the problem to his teacher.
💡'open out' cannot take a direct object; use 'about' to introduce the topic.