Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

leave the door open

Idioms  
  1. Allow for further action or discussion. For example, This will's terms leave the door open for fighting among the heirs. This metaphoric expression transfers the invitation implied by an open door to future events. Also see open the door to.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

That said, Pirro did request that the judge dismiss the case “without prejudice,” which in theory would leave the door open for the government to pursue Hearn again.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 3, 2026

"I keep the back door locked at all times," she said, adding she keeps the key out of the way of her children because she's "petrified" they'll leave the door open.

From BBC Jan. 12, 2026

They are instead forecasting a more modest quarter-point reduction, with policymakers likely to leave the door open to more cuts, especially if there is a shock to the global economy in the near future.

From The Wall Street Journal Nov. 21, 2025

And like many modern movies that are part of an expansive Hollywood franchise, “Tron: Ares” makes sure to leave the door open for future storytelling.

From Los Angeles Times Oct. 9, 2025

She was asking him to leave the door open.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Join 12,000,000 vocabulary learners

Start learning new words today on VocabTrainer.
You'll remember them forever.

Start training