open up

I

1) see open 2), 12)

2) PHR-V-ERG If a place, economy, or area of interest opens up, or if someone opens it up, more people can go there or become involved in it.

[V P] As the market opens up, I think people are going to be able to spend more money on consumer goods...

[V P to n] He said he wanted to see how Albania was opening up to the world...

[V P n (not pron)] If this agreement's going to succeed, the European Community must dramatically open up its markets...

[V P n to n] The money could open up music to more children. [Also V n P, V n P to n]

3) PHR-V-ERG If something opens up opportunities or possibilities, or if they open up, they are created.

[V P n (not pron)] It was also felt that the collapse of the system opened up new possibilities...

[V P] New opportunities are opening up for investors who want a more direct stake in overseas companies. [Also V n P]

4) PHRASAL VERB If you open up a lead in a race or competition, you get yourself into a position where you are leading, usually by quite a long way.

[V P n (not pron)] The Chinese quartet had opened up a lead of more than two minutes.

5) PHRASAL VERB When you open up a building, you unlock and open the door so that people can get in.

[V P n (not pron)] Three armed men were waiting when the postmaster and his wife arrived to open up the shop...

[V P] Open up, or I break in!

II or open out

PHRASAL VERB

If someone opens up or opens out, they start to say exactly what they think or feel.

[V P to n] Lorna found that people were willing to open up to her...

[V P] It will be difficult for her to open out and discuss her problems freely with you.