Translation guide
The English phrase 'leave open' can refer to physically leaving something ajar, keeping options available, or leaving a matter unresolved. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Please don't leave the door open.
Literally 'leave without closing'. Emphasizes the intentional act of not closing something.
I left the window open.
Literally 'leave slightly open'. Used when you want to specify that something is only ajar.
I left the window slightly open for ventilation.
To not commit to a decision, leaving room for other choices or future actions.
Literally 'leave options remaining'. A natural way to say you are keeping your options open.
I want to leave my options open.
Literally 'leave a possibility'. Used when you don't want to rule something out.
Literally 'leave room/leeway'. More formal, often used in business or legal contexts.
To not finalize a discussion, decision, or issue; to leave it pending.
Literally 'leave in an unresolved state'. Common for issues or problems.
The issue was left open.
Literally 'leave without reaching a conclusion'. Used for discussions or meetings.
Means 'to put on hold' or 'to leave pending'. Very common in business settings.
Let's leave that matter open.
The English phrase 'leave open' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Using 「開けておく」 for non-physical meanings will sound unnatural. Choose the appropriate phrase based on context.
Let's leave the possibility of negotiation open.
The contract should not leave room for interpretation.
Let's leave the conclusion open for today.