# leave the door open

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/leave-the-door-open
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To maintain the possibility of something happening in the future.

## Examples

- I will leave the door open for a new job offer.
- She declined the promotion for now, but she left the door open for a future role.
- Although the negotiations stalled, the diplomat left the door open for further discussions to ensure a peaceful resolution.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.