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.
To leave a door, window, or container slightly open, not fully closed.
Literally 'leave in an opened state'. Used for doors, windows, etc. that are left wide open or ajar.
ドアを開けっ放しにしないでください。
Please don't leave the door open.
Literally 'leave without closing'. Emphasizes the intentional act of not closing something.
窓を閉めずにおいた。
I left the window open.
Literally 'leave slightly open'. Used when you want to specify that something is only ajar.
換気のために窓を少し開けておいた。
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.
まだ選択肢を残しておきたい。
I want to leave my options open.
Literally 'leave a possibility'. Used when you don't want to rule something out.
交渉の可能性を残しておきましょう。
Let's leave the possibility of negotiation open.
Literally 'leave room/leeway'. More formal, often used in business or legal contexts.
契約には解釈の余地を残すべきではない。
The contract should not leave room for interpretation.
To not finalize a discussion, decision, or issue; to leave it pending.
Literally 'leave in an unresolved state'. Common for issues or problems.
その問題は未解決のままにされた。
The issue was left open.
Literally 'leave without reaching a conclusion'. Used for discussions or meetings.
今日は結論を出さずにおきましょう。
Let's leave the conclusion open for today.
Means 'to put on hold' or 'to leave pending'. Very common in business settings.
その件は保留にしましょう。
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.