out in the open

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase out in the open, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression out in the open used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "out in the open"

Meaning

To be ‘out in the open’ is to make something known or visible, usually in a public place or setting. It is used to describe the kind of attitude or behaviour that is direct, honest and transparent. It can also refer to a situation that is difficult or embarrassing and is thus discussed openly.

Etymology

The phrase ‘out in the open’ has been used since the 16th century, with the first known usage appearing in a 1557 Middle English translation of the Bible. The phrase ‘out in the open’ is derived from the Old English phrase ‘eope open,’ which originally meant ‘widely spread or exposed to the elements’. The phrase is often used in a figurative sense, to denote something being declared openly and transparently.

Usage

The phrase ‘out in the open’ is usually used to describe a situation which is discussed or revealed in a public manner. It is usually used to emphasize the openness and honesty of the discussion, or to show that the situation is exposed and cannot be hidden. In modern usage, the phrase is often used in the context of political or social scandal, to describe when the full details of a story are made public.

Example Sentences

• The politician chose to put the controversy ‘out in the open’, in an effort to be transparent and honest with the public.
• The couple decided to talk about their problems ‘out in the open’, in the hope that it would help them resolve them.
• The couple finally decided to put the scandal ‘out in the open’, and the media had a field day with the news.

From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms

English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.