English idiom
open the floodgates
Example
“Removing the application fee opened the floodgates to thousands of entries.”
Dictionary details
Component words
Related idioms
Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.
with open arms
CEFR B1with an enthusiastic and affectionate welcome
every which way
CEFR B1in every direction, often in a scattered or disorderly way
batten down the hatches
CEFR B2to prepare yourself and your resources for an approaching difficult situation
give someone the slip
CEFR B2to escape or evade someone who is following or pursuing you
out on a limb
CEFR B2in a vulnerable position after taking an unusual or unsupported risk
rock the boat
CEFR B2to disturb a stable situation by causing trouble or challenging accepted arrangements
Source methodology
Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.