verb HSK 4
Traditional 開口
to open one's mouth · to start to talk · to speak up · to make an opening
Meaning
开口 literally means 'to open the mouth' and is used when someone begins to speak, especially for the first time in a conversation or after a period of silence. It can also refer to making the first move in asking for something, or physically opening a gap or opening.
Usage
Commonly used when describing someone breaking silence or initiating speech, especially in situations where speaking requires courage or effort. Often appears in phrases like '不好意思开口' (embarrassed to speak up) or '一开口就...' (as soon as one starts talking...). Can also mean to ask for something, especially money or favors.
Examples
- 01他一开口就说错了话。.As soon as he opened his mouth, he said the wrong thing.
- 02我不好意思向父母开口借钱。.I'm too embarrassed to ask my parents for money.
Characters
Common collocations
- 一开口as soon as one opens one's mouth
- 不好意思开口embarrassed to speak up
- 开口说话to begin speaking
- 开口要钱to ask for money
Antonyms
Origin
Compound of 开 (to open) and 口 (mouth), creating a straightforward literal meaning that extends metaphorically to initiating speech or conversation.