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."
separable
open out
B1 neutral separable transitive/intransitive
To unfold, expand, or widen into a larger shape or space; or to become more communicative and relaxed.
In plain English
To open something flat or wide, like a map; or for a person to become less shy.
What does "open out" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To open so that something extends outward in all directions.
Actually means
To open something flat or wide, like a map; or for a person to become less shy.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "open out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
map road view landscape valley conversation person
How to conjugate "open out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "open out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "open out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.