Nearness: meaning, definitions and examples

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nearness

 

[ ˈnɪrnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in relationships

The state or quality of being near in space or relationship.

Synonyms

closeness, intimacy, proximity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nearness

Talking about physical or emotional closeness in a neutral or descriptive way.

  • The nearness of the shops makes it a convenient place to live
  • The nearness of their friendship was evident in how they supported each other
closeness

Referring to a strong emotional bond or a short physical distance between people or objects.

  • The closeness between the siblings was remarkable
  • Their closeness in age made them best friends growing up
proximity

Discussing physical distance in a more formal or technical way, often used in professional or academic settings.

  • The proximity of the airport to the city center is a great advantage
  • He chose the apartment due to its proximity to his workplace
intimacy

Describing a very close, personal relationship, often emotional or romantic. Can have a slightly formal context.

  • Their relationship was built on trust and intimacy
  • The intimacy between the couple was evident in their gentle interactions

Examples of usage

  • He felt a sense of nearness to his family.
  • The nearness of the two buildings made it easy to commute between them.
Context #2 | Noun

in time

The short distance in time between two events.

Synonyms

closeness, immediacy, proximity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nearness

Used to describe physical or emotional distance in a neutral manner.

  • The nearness of the park makes it a great place for morning runs
  • His nearness brought her comfort
immediacy

Refers to something happening without delay or the urgency of a situation. Often has a sense of urgency or significance.

  • The immediacy of the emergency required swift action
  • The immediacy of her response surprised everyone
closeness

Often used to describe emotional bonds or relationships, can sometimes describe physical distance.

  • The closeness between the friends was evident in their conversations
  • Closeness to the city center was a big plus for the apartment
proximity

Used to describe physical closeness or the distance between locations, often in technical or formal contexts.

  • The proximity of the school to their house was a major advantage
  • In close proximity to the airport, the hotel was a convenient choice

Examples of usage

  • The nearness of the deadlines caused stress for the team.
  • In the nearness of the holidays, people tend to be more festive.

Translations

Translations of the word "nearness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 proximidade

🇮🇳 निकटता

🇩🇪 Nähe

🇮🇩 kedekatan

🇺🇦 близькість

🇵🇱 bliskość

🇯🇵 近さ (ちかさ)

🇫🇷 proximité

🇪🇸 cercanía

🇹🇷 yakınlık

🇰🇷 가까움

🇸🇦 قرب

🇨🇿 blízkost

🇸🇰 blízkosť

🇨🇳 接近

🇸🇮 bližina

🇮🇸 nánd

🇰🇿 жақындық

🇬🇪 ახლოება

🇦🇿 yaxınlıq

🇲🇽 cercanía

Etymology

The word 'nearness' originated from the Middle English word 'nerenesse', which is derived from the Old English 'neah' meaning 'near'. The concept of nearness has been a fundamental aspect of human relationships and spatial awareness throughout history, shaping our understanding of proximity and intimacy.

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

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,430, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.