leave the door open
Meaning(s)
1. ensure that there is still an opportunity for something
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
I'll leave the door open in the hope they'll reconsider
Analysis
The idiom to 'leave the door open' means to make sure that an opportunity is still available at a later time. To 'leave the door open' also means to allow the possibility for future change or a possible reconsideration of something that seemed like it was already 'a done deal'. You could use this in either social or professional contexts, but it is more likely to be heard in a professional context.
Social Examples (Basic)
- The coach discussed things with the player after they had a disagreement, and although the player wasn't happy with the outcome, the coach is leaving the door open for the player to continue to play.
- The couple had a bad breakup, but months later, Sarah was still heartbroken. I think she left the door open for Zack, in case he ever changed his mind.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- The salesman left the company, thinking he had lost a big opportunity, but he left his card with them, leaving the door open for them to contact him in case they reconsidered.
- Last week, John interviewed for a great job. A few days after that, he aced another interview and was offered that job, but he asked for some time to think it over because he wanted to leave the door open for the first one.