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Approaching Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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approaching

[əˈprəʊtʃɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a physical or abstract sense

Moving closer to someone or something in distance or time.

Synonyms

advancing, coming near, getting closer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
approaching

Used when something or someone is moving closer or nearing a point in time or space. Commonly used in formal or neutral contexts.

  • The deadline is approaching faster than we expected.
  • I saw a car approaching from the distance.
coming near

A more casual and conversational way to say that something or someone is getting closer. Suitable for informal contexts.

  • The holidays are coming near, and I'm excited!
  • I can see the bus coming near.
getting closer

A general, informal way to describe something or someone moving nearer in proximity or time. Suitable for casual conversations.

  • Her birthday is getting closer, I need to buy a gift.
  • The hikers are getting closer to the summit.
advancing

Used when something is moving forward or making progress, often in a positive sense. Suitable for technical, military, or any context involving progress.

  • Technology is advancing at an incredible rate.
  • The troops are advancing towards the enemy lines.

Examples of usage

  • He saw a figure approaching in the distance.
  • The deadline for the project is fast approaching.
  • The storm clouds are approaching from the west.
Context #2 | Noun

in a formal or professional setting

The act of coming near or nearer.

Synonyms

arrival, nearness, proximity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
approaching

Use this word when something or someone is coming closer in time or space. Often used in a more general sense.

  • The train is approaching the station
  • The deadline for the project is approaching
arrival

This word is best used to describe the moment something or someone reaches a destination.

  • Her arrival at the party was a surprise
  • The arrival of summer is always welcome
proximity

This word is typically used in formal contexts to describe how close something is in space or time.

  • The proximity of the hospital is convenient
  • The proximity of their arrival was making everyone excited
nearness

Use this word to describe the closeness of something in terms of space or relationship. It is often used in more abstract contexts.

  • The nearness of the mountains was breathtaking
  • Their emotional nearness made their friendship special

Examples of usage

  • The approaching of the deadline is causing stress among the team.
  • We need to discuss the approaching of the new season.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research indicates that approaching a feared situation can reduce anxiety over time, a process called exposure therapy.
  • The 'approach-avoidance' conflict describes the struggle between wanting something that has both positive and negative aspects.
  • Approaching goals incrementally can lead to greater satisfaction and success in achieving them.

Literature

  • Many poems and stories often describe characters 'approaching' pivotal moments that change their lives.
  • In literature, the technique of foreshadowing often involves the idea of characters approaching a climax.
  • Famous novels often include metaphors of 'approaching' challenges that lead to growth or revelation.

Science

  • In physics, the concept of 'approaching' is used to describe objects that move closer to one another, especially under gravitational forces.
  • Astronomers use the term when discussing comets or asteroids that are 'approaching' Earth, prompting studies on their trajectories.
  • In ecology, species can be observed 'approaching' their carrying capacity, the maximum population size that an environment can sustain.

Cultural Reference

  • In many cultures, approaching a new season is celebrated through festivals, like the arrival of spring with Easter and Holi.
  • The idea of 'approaching' wisdom is often represented as travels within various folklore and mythologies, where characters seek knowledge as a journey.
  • Social dynamics often revolve around the concept of 'approaching' someone to initiate friendships or business deals, critical in networking.

Origin of 'approaching'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'approachare,' which means 'to come near.'
  • In Middle English, the word took the form 'aprochen' before evolving to its current structure.
  • The prefix 'ap-' is derived from the Latin 'ad,' meaning 'to' or 'toward.'

The word 'approaching' originated from the Middle English word 'approchen', which came from the Old French 'aprochier', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'appropiare', meaning 'to come near'. The concept of approaching has been a fundamental aspect of human existence, influencing interactions, decisions, and outcomes throughout history.

See also: approach, approachability, approachable, approaches, unapproachability, unapproachable, unapproachably.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,917, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.