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open out

B1 neutral separable both
In simple words

To open something flat or wide, like a map; or for a person to become less shy.

Literal meaning: To open so that something extends outward in all directions.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To unfold or spread something flat so it takes up more space.

"She opened out the map on the car bonnet to find the right route."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 neutral

(Of a space or view) to widen or become larger as you move forward.

"As they climbed the hill, the valley opened out beneath them."

3 B1 idiomatic neutral

(Of a person) to become less reserved and more willing to talk or share feelings.

"It took a few months, but he eventually opened out and started talking about his past."

Usage notes

The physical sense (unfolding) is straightforward and common. The figurative sense (a person 'opening out') is similar to 'open up' but slightly less common. Also used of roads or spaces that widen.

Commonly used with

map road view landscape valley conversation person

Forms

Base
open out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
opens out
he/she/it
Past simple
opened out
yesterday
Past participle
opened out
have + pp
-ing form
opening out
continuous

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