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Region: General | Usage example: He kept his options open until the market clarified.

Keep your options open

Meaning

Avoid committing to one plan in case other opportunities arise.

Usage

Career or life planning advice.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

From the idea of keeping doors or routes accessible.

Gained traction alongside modern career mobility talk.

Related Idioms

Keep your ears open

Be attentive and listen for useful information.

Keep your cards close to your chest

Remain secretive about your plans.

Keep your head down

Avoid drawing attention, especially in difficult situations.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.