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Near Meaning: Definition and Examples

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near

[nΙͺΙ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in proximity

at or to a short distance away; nearby.

Synonyms

adjacent, close, proximate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
near

Use this when something is at a short distance away, but not necessarily next to something else. It's often used in everyday situations.

  • The park is near my house.
  • We sat near the window.
close

This is used to describe something that is very near in distance or time. It can also be used metaphorically to describe relationships.

  • The grocery store is close to my apartment.
  • They have a very close friendship.
adjacent

This word is more formal and is used to describe something that is next to or adjoining something else, especially in a more technical or precise context.

  • The library is adjacent to the main building.
  • Our office is adjacent to the conference room.
proximate

This word is more technical and formal, often used in legal, academic, or scientific contexts to mean something that is immediately preceding or following something in a sequence.

  • The proximate cause of the accident was a faulty brake system.
  • Proximate analysis showed a significant correlation.

Examples of usage

  • He stood near the door.
  • The train station is near our hotel.
  • We live near the beach.
Context #2 | Adjective

close in distance

close to someone or something in distance.

Synonyms

adjacent, close, proximal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
near

Use 'near' when describing an object or person that is within a short distance from another object or person.

  • The park is near my house
  • There's a cafe near the office
close

Use 'close' to describe proximity in both physical and abstract terms. It can refer to physical distance or emotional bonds.

  • They live close to each other
  • We have always been very close friends
adjacent

Use 'adjacent' when referring to something being directly next to another object, often used in more formal or technical contexts.

  • The library is adjacent to the museum
  • Our office is adjacent to a beautiful park
proximal

Use 'proximal' in medical, biological, or technical contexts to describe something near to a center point or point of reference.

  • The proximal end of the bone
  • The lesion is proximal to the knee

Examples of usage

  • The nearest gas station is near here.
  • The two cities are near each other.
  • Her house is near the park.
Context #3 | Preposition

in proximity

at or to a short distance away from (a place).

Synonyms

beside, close to, next to.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
near

Used to describe something that is not far away. Commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.

  • The school is near my house
  • She sat near the window
close to

Describes something that is a short distance away, often interchangeable with 'near'. Suitable for literal and emotional proximity.

  • The convenience store is close to my apartment
  • She feels close to her family
next to

Indicates something immediately adjacent or very close to another object or person.

  • The bakery is next to the coffee shop
  • She placed her phone next to the keyboard
beside

Used when something is directly to the side of another object. Often used to indicate close physical proximity.

  • He sat beside his friend
  • The book is beside the lamp

Examples of usage

  • She lives near the city center.
  • The restaurant is near the train station.
  • Our house is near the mountains.

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • 'Near' often describes distance in navigation, helping people find their way to places that are close together.
  • In geographical terms, 'near' can influence how communities are structured, particularly in urban planning.
  • Landmarks 'near' each other can create cultural hubs where people gather and interact more frequently.

Psychology

  • People perceive 'near' situations or objects as more familiar and safer, influencing decision-making.
  • The concept of 'near' can evoke feelings of comfort, particularly in social settings where individuals feel connected.
  • In relationships, being 'near' someone often leads to stronger emotional bonds and trust.

Literature

  • Many poets and authors use 'near' to create imagery, emphasizing the closeness of love or friendship.
  • In storytelling, the term 'near' can build tension, especially when characters are close to danger or revelation.
  • Classic literature often contrasts 'near' and 'far' to explore themes of longing and connection.

Technology

  • 'Near' technology includes features like location services on smartphones that help find things close to you.
  • In social media, algorithms factor in 'near' connections to suggest friends or content based on proximity.
  • Virtual reality systems often rely on 'near' distances to create immersive experiences that feel realistic.

Origin of 'near'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'near' comes from the Old English word 'neah', which means close in space or time.
  • Over the years, 'near' has evolved through various languages, maintaining its overall meaning of proximity.
  • The use of 'near' in metaphors can signify emotional closeness and relationships, not just physical distance.

The word 'near' originated in Middle English from the Old English word 'nΔ“ar'. It has been used to describe proximity, closeness, and short distances for centuries. The concept of nearness is fundamental to human communication and navigation, making 'near' a commonly used word in various contexts.

See also: nearby, nearer, nearest, nearly, nearness.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #348, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.