open door

American  

noun

1. the policy of admitting people of all nationalities or ethnic groups to a country upon equal terms, as for immigration.

2. the policy or practice of trading with all nations on an equal basis.

3. admission or access; unrestricted opportunity.

   His experience had given him an open door to success in his field.

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open door British  

noun

1. a policy or practice by which a nation grants opportunities for trade to all other nations equally

2. free and unrestricted admission

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adjective

1. open to all; accessible

2. (in industrial relations) designating a policy of management being prepared to talk to workers in the office at any time

Other Word Forms

• open-door adjective

Etymology

Origin of open door

First recorded in 1520–30

Example Sentences

“But festivals give you the opportunity to open doors for more people that don’t know your music, who don’t know nothing.”

From Los Angeles Times

Pop music blared from open doors on Monday afternoon on Santee Street as the light faded.

From Los Angeles Times

Committed to Hawaii, Rosenthal is still learning volleyball, and the move to Southern California has helped open doors and led to better competition that can only improve his game.

From Los Angeles Times

His success alone may not open doors for others like him, but his voice can keep the issue relevant.

From Washington Post

A box spring, leaning on its side against the open door of an empty refrigerator, blocked one corner of the room.

From Los Angeles Times