“Open” and “close” are used very often, but have you been using them correctly? I’m sure at one point or another, we have heard someone say the following:
In the sentences above, both words are incorrectly used although the meaning is understood – well, at least WE understand them. Here’s how you should use the generic “open” and “close” for various items.
- Open & close*: the door, windows, mouth
- Turn on & off: the lights, television, tap/faucet
- Switch on & off: the lights, television
- Put on & take off: your shirt, shoes
*NOTE: You could also substitute “close” with “shut“.
So, if anyone tells you: “Open the TV, please“, get a screwdriver and open the back cover.