leave the door open
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
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
The remaining time on James’ contract with the Lakers is a natural potential end date, but he did leave the door open Monday to the possibility of being lured into staying because of championship opportunities.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 30, 2024
That appeared to leave the door open for Newcastle boss Eddie Howe, former Brighton and Chelsea head coach Graham Potter and U21 European Championship-winning boss Lee Carsley.
From BBC • Oct. 17, 2024
In these circumstances use open ended questions such as “How have you been feeling?” and leave the door open to talk any time they are ready.
From Salon • Aug. 22, 2024
“Thank you, Mr. Taphouse. Please stay outside, if you’d be good enough. But leave the door open, because these gentlemen are about to go.”
From "The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage" by Philip Pullman
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.