Proximately: meaning, definitions and examples

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proximately

 

[prɒkˈsɪmətli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a close or approximate manner

Proximately means in a close or approximate manner. It is often used to describe something that is near or close to a certain point, but not exact.

Synonyms

approximately, closely, nearly.

Examples of usage

  • He lives proximately five miles away from here.
  • The two cities are proximately located, making it easy to travel between them.
Context #2 | Adverb

in terms of time

Proximately can also refer to something happening in the near future or shortly. It is used to indicate that an event will occur soon.

Synonyms

imminently, shortly, soon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
proximately

Used to describe something that is very close in space or time, but typically more formal or specific in meaning. It is not commonly used in everyday language.

  • The two events occurred proximately to each other.
  • The main office is located proximately to the factory.
soon

Used to indicate that something will happen in the near future. It is versatile and commonly used in both formal and informal situations.

  • She will be here soon.
  • The movie starts soon.
shortly

Used to indicate that something will happen in a short amount of time. It is more casual and commonly used in everyday conversation.

  • The meeting will start shortly.
  • I'll be with you shortly.
imminently

Used when something is about to happen very soon, with a sense of urgency. Often used in formal or serious contexts.

  • The storm is expected to hit imminently.
  • She is due to give birth imminently.

Examples of usage

  • The project deadline is proximately approaching, so we need to work quickly.
  • She will proximately receive the results of her exam.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'proximus,' meaning 'nearest' or 'closest.'
  • It was first used in English around the early 19th century to describe nearness.
  • Its root word 'proximate' is also linked to the concept of being immediate or direct.

Science

  • In environmental studies, 'proximately' often refers to factors that are directly contributing to a phenomenon, like pollution impacting health.
  • In physics, the concept of proximity can affect gravitational forces observed between two mass objects.
  • In biology, species that are proximately related can share many genetic traits, indicating common ancestry.

Psychology

  • Understanding proximately related events can help explain cause and effect in behavioral psychology.
  • Proximal development refers to the 'zone of proximal development,' where a child can learn with guidance.
  • Emotions can also be proximately affected by the presence of others, showing how social environments influence feelings.

Geography

  • Maps often illustrate proximately located landmarks to help people navigate effectively.
  • Cities that are located proximately can develop economic ties due to shared resources and activities.
  • Understanding proximately adjacent areas is important in urban planning and development.

Literature

  • In storytelling, proximately set events can create tension and lead to climactic moments.
  • Character relationships are often reinforced by their proximately occurring actions and dialogues.
  • Proximally related themes in literature can reveal deeper meanings and strengthen the narrative.

Translations

Translations of the word "proximately" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aproximadamente

🇮🇳 लगभग

🇩🇪 ungefähr

🇮🇩 sekitar

🇺🇦 приблизно

🇵🇱 w przybliżeniu

🇯🇵 おおよそ

🇫🇷 approximativement

🇪🇸 aproximadamente

🇹🇷 yaklaşık olarak

🇰🇷 대략

🇸🇦 تقريبًا

🇨🇿 přibližně

🇸🇰 približne

🇨🇳 大约

🇸🇮 približno

🇮🇸 um það bil

🇰🇿 шамамен

🇬🇪 დაახლოებით

🇦🇿 təxminən

🇲🇽 aproximadamente

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,849, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.