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Reopen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”„
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reopen

[หŒriหหˆoสŠpษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

return to operation

To reopen means to open something again after it has been closed. This can apply to various contexts such as businesses, schools, or even discussions that have been paused or closed. The term emphasizes the act of resuming operations or availability. In a broader sense, it can signify an attempt to revisit or start afresh in a particular situation. The reopening often comes after a significant period of closure, often due to circumstances like maintenance, economic situations, or social restrictions.

Synonyms

reestablish, reinitiate, restart, resume.

Examples of usage

  • The restaurant decided to reopen after renovations.
  • Schools may reopen in the fall if conditions permit.
  • The city plans to reopen the park next week.
  • We should consider reopening the discussion on this topic.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Social and Cultural Impact

  • Reopening businesses after events like natural disasters or pandemics has significant impacts on local economies and communities.
  • The phrase became widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic, symbolizing the hope for return to normal life.
  • Cultural practices often influence how and when places choose to reopen, reflecting community values and health guidelines.

Legal and Business Contexts

  • In law, a case may be reopened if new evidence emerges or if legal standards change.
  • Businesses often create strategic plans for reopening to ensure customer safety and regain trust.
  • Reopening after closures may require permits, inspections, and adherence to new regulations.

Literature

  • In storytelling, a narrative might 'reopen' themes or characters from earlier chapters, inviting readers back into the plot.
  • The concept of reopening is often linked to themes of second chances or revisiting the past in novels.
  • Writers may use physical settings, like doors or windows, as symbols of reopening opportunities in their works.

Origin of 'reopen'

Main points about word origin

  • This word is formed by adding 're-' (meaning 'again') to 'open', which comes from the Old English 'opnian'.
  • The concept of reopening dates back centuries, often used in legal and business contexts.
  • In modern usage, it frequently appears in discussions about businesses or places that are allowed to start operating after a closure.

The word 'reopen' is formed from the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and the verb 'open', derived from the Old English 'openian', which means to 'make open' or 'set free'. The usage of 'reopen' emerged in the English language in the early 20th century as societies began to experience frequent interruptions and closures in various sectors, especially during significant events such as wars or economic downturns. With the rise of industrialization and the subsequent establishment of businesses, the term gained traction in commercial contexts. This vocabulary has further evolved, acquiring various connotations in contemporary society, including those related to public health and safety measures, especially highlighted by the global pandemic situations in the early 21st century, where many businesses and facilities were temporarily closed and later 'reopened' based on public health assessments. The semantic field of 'reopen' has broadened from just physical spaces to include discussions, negotiations, and various social contexts where a return to previous states or conditions is sought.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,099, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.