# openness

/ˈoʊpənəs/ (US) · /ˈəʊpənnəs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/openness
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. honesty and transparency

noun · CEFR B2

the quality of being honest and not hiding information or feelings.

For teachers: the quality of being characterized by a lack of secrecy; transparency and candour in communication.

- The manager encouraged openness in the office so that everyone felt safe sharing their mistakes.
- The government's new policy was designed to foster greater openness regarding how public funds were allocated to local infrastructure projects.

### 2. receptivity to new ideas

noun · CEFR B2

the willingness to listen to or accept different ideas, cultures, or ways of doing things.

For teachers: a receptive attitude toward new ideas, experiences, or diverse cultural perspectives.

- Her openness to different cultures made her a great choice for the international project.
- Psychologists often measure openness as a core personality trait that determines how likely an individual is to seek out novel experiences.

### 3. accessibility of data or systems

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the degree to which information or software can be used and shared by everyone.

For teachers: the degree of accessibility to view, use, and modify resources in a shared environment without proprietary restrictions.

- The openness of the software allowed developers from all over the world to improve it.
- The movement for data openness argues that scientific research funded by the public should be freely accessible to all citizens.

## Examples

- The manager encourages openness and honesty in every meeting.
- The government's new policy of openness allows citizens to access records that were previously kept secret.
- Psychologists define openness to experience as a fundamental personality trait characterized by curiosity, aesthetic sensitivity, and a preference for variety over strict routine.

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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.