Next to Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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next to

[nekst tuː ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Preposition}

preposition

In a position immediately to one side of someone or something.

Synonyms

alongside, beside, by.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
next to	Typically used to describe a position directly adjacent to someone or something. It implies immediate proximity. She sat next to me during the meeting The bakery is next to the coffee shop
beside	Indicates a position immediately adjacent to something, often used in more formal or written contexts. He stood beside her in the photograph There is a chair beside the window
alongside	Suggests being adjacent, but often used in contexts where two things are parallel or moving/growing together. The soldiers marched alongside each other The new park was built alongside the river
by	Used to describe proximity to a place or object, often with a less precise meaning than 'next to' or 'beside'. She lives by the sea They parked the car by the restaurant

Examples of usage

He sat next to me at the meeting.
The bank is next to the post office.
We live next to a park.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Linguistic Usage

This phrase can indicate physical proximity, like how a lamp is placed next to a sofa.
It can also be used metaphorically, as in being 'next to' someone in terms of feelings or support.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, sitting next to someone during meals signifies friendship and connection.
The phrase is commonly used in everyday conversation, showing closeness in relationships.

Psychological Impact

Being next to someone can increase feelings of safety and comfort, especially in social situations.
Research shows that physical proximity can strengthen social bonds and foster communication.

Everyday Examples

You often hear it in directions, like 'The store is next to the park.'
It's commonly used in literature to describe settings, adding depth to character relationships.

Origin of 'next to'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'next to' comes from Old English, combining 'next,' which means nearest in position, and 'to,' indicating direction.
The word 'next' has roots in the Proto-Germanic language, meaning 'near' or 'close.'

The word 'next' originated from the Old English word 'neahst', which means 'nearest'. Over time, it evolved to 'next' in Middle English. The concept of proximity or adjacency has been a fundamental aspect of human language and communication, leading to the widespread use of words like 'next' to describe spatial relationships.