Closer: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something or someone that is at a short distance from another thing or person, either physically or emotionally.

• She moved closer to get a better view.
• They have become closer friends over the years.

Describes very close relationships, often with a sense of personal or private connection; can also refer to romantic or deep friendships.

• They shared an intimate dinner.
• Their conversation became quite intimate.

Typically used to describe physical proximity or approaching something in space or time; can also imply closeness in relationships.

• The shop is near the school.
• He is near to her heart.

Used to express affection or close relationships with people who are cherished.

• She is a dear friend of mine.
• Dear John, I hope this letter finds you well.

Often used to describe strong emotional bonds or dependency on someone or something.

• He is very attached to his dog.
• She felt attached to her childhood home.

Used to describe something that is at a shorter distance in space or time.

• The store is closer than I thought.
• Can you move a bit closer so I can see?

Similar to 'closer', but often used in a more comparative manner to indicate that something is closer in relation to something else.

• Move the chair nearer to the table.
• As we drove, the mountains seemed to be getting nearer.

Used to describe something that is next to or adjoining something else, often in a physical or geographical sense.

• The library is adjacent to the main building.
• Their house is adjacent to a lovely park.

A formal word used to describe something that is very near, often in a spatial or sequential sense. Often used in formal writing or technical contexts.

• The injury was caused by proximate contact with the machinery.
• The houses are in proximate locations.

Used in a relational context, indicating becoming more intimate or connected. This form of 'closer' implies increasing emotional or physical proximity.

• After sharing our secrets, we became much closer friends.
• Moving to the same neighborhood made us closer as a family.

Used to refer to a path or route designed for running or racing.

• Athletes trained hard on the track every morning.
• We went to the stadium to watch the races on the track.

Used to describe a song that has become extremely popular, usually topping musical charts and gaining wide recognition.

• Their band released a new hit single that is now playing on every radio station.
• She dreamed of one day having her own hit single that everyone would know.