openstaan

Openstaan is a Dutch verb meaning to be open, to be available, or to be receptive. It can describe a physical openness, such as a door or window, or a more abstract openness to people, ideas, or opportunities. The term combines the adjective open with the verb staan, and is frequently used in contexts where a state of accessibility or willingness is emphasized.

Literal usage focuses on physical openness. Common phrases include "de deur staat open" (the door is open) and "de winkel staat open tot zes uur" (the shop is open until six). In everyday speech, you may also hear "staan op een kier" to mean something is ajar.

Figurative usage expresses receptiveness or accessibility. With the preposition voor, openstaan means to be open to something: "staan open voor suggesties" or "openstaan voor nieuwe ideeën." People or organizations can "staan open voor samenwerkingen" or "staan open voor feedback." The expression often signals a positive attitude toward proposals, changes, or diversity of viewpoints.

Grammar and forms: openstaan is used as an intransitive verb. In the present tense you find forms such as ik sta open, jij staat open, hij staat open, wij staan open, jullie staan open, zij staan open. The past tense is typically "de deur stond open." In the perfect tense the past participle is gestaan and the auxiliary is usually zijn: "De deur is open gestaan" (also heard as "de deur heeft open gestaan" in some contexts).

Etymology and usage notes: openstaan derives from the combination of open and staan and has been part of Dutch usage since early modern times. See also: open, toegankelijkheid, beschikbaarheid.