Close by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Close by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is nearby or in close proximity. Example: "There is a coffee shop close by where we can grab a drink."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Bonus: Bierkraft is close by!

Huffington Post

Close by is Anse de Colombier.

The New York Times - Travel

Close by is Churchill.

The Guardian - Arts

Close by, Rick is alive.

Huffington Post

Close by are the Cromwell Hospital and Baden-Powell House.

Wikipedia

We live close by.

The New York Times

Not close by.

The New Yorker

Fayed was walking close by.

The New York Times - Sports

Cows grazed dangerously close by.

The New York Times - Travel

A fish leaps close by.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Looking for a close-by parking space?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Close by", ensure the context makes it clear what is being referred to as nearby. For example, "The park is close by the library" provides a clear reference point.

Common error

Avoid using "Close by" without a clear reference point. Saying "It's close by" without specifying what "it" is or what it's close to can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Close by" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, indicating location or proximity. It often modifies a noun or pronoun, specifying that something is located near the subject. Ludwig AI confirms its common use in indicating nearness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

21%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Close by" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates proximity. Ludwig AI validates its frequent occurrence in diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media. To enhance clarity, ensure "Close by" is always accompanied by a clear reference point. Alternatives like "nearby" or "in the vicinity" can be used for variety. Avoiding ambiguity and providing context are key to effective communication with "Close by".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Nearby

A single word alternative emphasizing proximity. It is generally interchangeable with "Close by".

A short distance away

A more descriptive alternative, clarifying that the distance is not significant.

In close proximity

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing nearness, often used in official or technical contexts.

In the vicinity

Indicates a general area rather than immediate closeness. Slightly less direct than "Close by".

Just around the corner

Implies a short distance and a change in direction, often used for places or locations.

In the neighborhood

Suggests nearness within a specific residential or local area.

A stone's throw away

An idiomatic expression indicating a very short distance, implying ease of access.

Within spitting distance

An informal idiom for very close proximity, even closer than "a stone's throw away".

Within easy reach

Focuses on accessibility rather than just distance; suitable when emphasizing convenience.

Within earshot

Implies close enough to hear something, focusing on auditory proximity rather than physical distance.

FAQs

How can I use "Close by" in a sentence?

"Close by" is used to indicate that something is near or in close proximity. For example, "There's a grocery store "close by" the hotel".

What can I say instead of "Close by"?

Alternatives to "Close by" include "nearby", "in the vicinity", or "just around the corner", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "Close by to"?

While it's common to hear, it's generally more concise and grammatically preferred to simply say "Close by" without the "to". For example, "The school is "close by"" is better than "The school is close by to the park".

What's the difference between "Close by" and "Near"?

"Near" is a general term for proximity, while "Close by" often implies a slightly shorter distance or a more immediate sense of nearness. Both can be used interchangeably in many contexts, but "Close by" can sometimes emphasize convenience or accessibility.