opening - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
opening Word Meanings
- an act of making something accessible.
- a gap or space that is available.
- a beginning or opportunity.
opening Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
opening Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈəʊ.pən.ɪŋ/
US
/ˈoʊ.pə.nɪŋ/
opening Word Etymology
The word 'opening' is derived from 'open' (root) + '-ing' (suffix). It originated from the Old English 'openian', influenced by Latin 'aperire'. Imagine a door cracking open to reveal a world of possibilities, symbolizing opportunity and new beginnings.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Opening is a noun with several related meanings. It can refer to the act of making something accessible or available, such as an opening in a door or the opening hours of a service. It can also describe a gap or space that is available for use, like an opening in a fence or a vacancy in a timetable. More figuratively, opening denotes a beginning, start, or opportunity—a chance to try something new, present ideas, or start a project. In everyday speech, people talk about opening a conversation, an opening act at a concert, or an opening of a store. Etymology: from open + ing; Old English openian; influenced by Latin aperire, symbolizing a door cracking open to reveal possibilities.
Usage Reminders
- Think of opening as either a point of entry or a gap you can use.
- Use opening with ceremonies, hours, and conversations.
- Distinguish physical openings from figurative ones.
- Remember opening is a noun, not a verb form here.
- Pair opening with common collocations like opening act, opening line, or opening paragraph.
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking opening always means a physical door or entry.
- Using opening only for events, not for conversations or ideas.
- Confusing opening with ‘outgoing’ or ‘openness’ as synonyms.
- Using opening as a verb form instead of a noun here.
- Mixing up opening with ‘close/open’ timing when talking about schedules.
Thinking Differences
Thinking about opening helps English learners link a broad set of meanings to a single word, but they must notice when it refers to a physical gap, a schedule, or a figurative opportunity to avoid overgeneralizing.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main senses: physical opening, time/space opening, and figurative beginning.
- Pair opening with common collocations like opening hours, opening ceremony, opening line.
- Distinguish opening as a noun from related verbs like open.
- Practice with both concrete (door, gap) and abstract (opportunity) contexts.
- Notice pronunciation: /ˈoʊpənɪŋ/ with stress on the first syllable.
- Check nuance with synonyms like start, onset, outset, begin.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'opening'?
A.Journey
B.Closeness
C.Commencement
D.Flee
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'opening' correctly?
A.The closing of the show was a great opening for the night.
B.The opening of the book was very engaging.
C.He always enjoys opening his eyes in the morning.
D.She kept opening the door when she heard a noise outside.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'opening'?
A.Closing
B.Middle
C.Beginning
D.Ending
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'opening'?
A.Introduction
B.Closure
C.Access
D.Uncovering
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving an 'opening'?
A.He started his own business after the grand opening event.
B.She closed the window to avoid any opening for the cold air to come in.
C.The students gathered at the school for the annual recital.
D.They met at the park for a picnic on a sunny day.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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