come out in(to) the open

come (out) into the open

1. To move into an open space or area that is exposed and visible to others. We'll wait for the enemy to come out into the open before we launch our attack.

2. By extension, to have been revealed or uncovered for others to know, see, experience, etc. Now that details of the legislation have come into the open, many people are questioning who had a hand in crafting it. We hold these meetings every week so that any concerns or frustrations of our team members can come out into the open.

come out in the open

1. To move into an open space or area that is exposed and visible to others. We'll wait for the enemy to come out in the open before we launch our attack.

2. By extension, to have been revealed or uncovered for others to know, see, experience, etc. Now that details of the legislation have come out in the open, many people are questioning who had a hand in crafting it. We hold these meetings every week so that any concerns or frustrations of our team members can come out in the open.

come out in(to) the open

1. To leave a hiding place. We're surrounded by enemy troops, so it's too dangerous to come out into the open right now. The cat is still hiding under the couch. Food, treats, and toys have not enticed her to come out in the open.

2. To appear in public after a period of reclusion. This event is the first time the young starlet has come out in the open since announcing her divorce.

come out in(to) the open

and come (out) into the open

1. Lit. [for someone or something] to move from a concealed position to an open area. Sooner or later, she will have to come out in the open. The deer finally came into the open.

2. Fig. [for someone who has been hiding] to appear in public. The thief came out into the open and was recognized by one of the witnesses to the crime. The FBI agents finally came into the open.