
A Buddhist monk carries his robe as another looks out of the window of their monastery in Yangon, Burma. Photo: Damir Sagolj/Reuters
Today's Phrase
The phrase 'a window of opportunity' describes a short period of time in which an opportunity exists for you to do something.
For example:
I've got a window of opportunity to talk to my boss about a pay rise tomorrow.
Meet me in reception – there might be a window of opportunity for me to let you into the concert!
Sometimes a problem can actually be a window of opportunity.
Don't confuse it with
The phrase 'out the window' means something has gone or has been wasted. For example:
My computer crashed yesterday, so any chance of finishing my work is out the window.
Interesting fact
A 'French window' is actually a type of door, but one which has many small panes of glass so that it can let light through. As well as France, they are very common in Italy.