Drawing nigh

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Drawing nigh" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a literary or poetic context to indicate that something is approaching or coming closer, often used in a more formal or archaic style. Example: "As the sun began to set, the shadows grew longer, and the evening drew nigh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Contrarians are therefore thinking: Is the time drawing nigh to begin a program of investment?

The New York Times

Most fly fishers welcome additions to their personal libraries of the sport, and Christmas is drawing nigh.

The New York Times - Sports

"The time is soon drawing nigh when it won't matter," said Bryan A. Stevenson, director of the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Ala., which represents death row inmates.

The New York Times

Whiles holding fast his gude blue bonnet;  Whiles crooning o'er some auld Scots sonnet;  Whiles glowring round wi' prudent cares,  Lest bogles catch him unawares:  Kirk-Alloway was drawing nigh,  Whare ghaists and houlets nightly cry.

Independent

"Tonight I popped by Barnes & Noble and picked up self-help books -- including 'Quitting for Dummies.' " Claudio Bonotto, the chef at the neighboring Le Zie restaurant, came in, signaling that the end of the night was drawing nigh.

The New York Times - Style

But that end is drawing nigh, and out in the snow beyond the windows the twin horsemen of tragedy and farce loom ever larger.Back to top >>FridayONE of the bonuses of a week spent in Copenhagen's Bella Centre is an introduction to Danish history.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But, believe it, they're willing to haggle as Labor Day draws nigh.

The New Yorker

In order that the onslaught of battle might not draw nigh to Imgur-Bel, the wall of Babylon".

The Guardian

They warned and announced, loped back and forth as the guest drew nigh, trying to gauge their mistress's pleasure.

The New York Times

Idea 1: You want to shift a significant portion of your savings into progressively more conservative investments as the date of your retirement draws nigh.

The New York Times

They both recounted hair-raising experiences, thanked me for keeping my distance, and spoke of happiness and relief as the end drew nigh.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Drawing nigh" when aiming for a formal, literary tone. Be mindful of your audience and context, as it might sound antiquated in casual settings.

Common error

Avoid using "Drawing nigh" in everyday conversation or informal writing. It can sound stilted or pretentious if not used appropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Drawing nigh" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the proximity or imminence of an event or state. Examples on Ludwig show its use in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Drawing nigh" is a grammatically correct phrase indicating that something is approaching. Ludwig AI validates that it is best suited for formal or literary contexts, as evidenced by its occurrence primarily in news and media sources. While effective for creating a specific tone, it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding out of place in informal settings. Consider alternatives like "approaching" or "coming near" for broader applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Approaching

This is a more direct and common synonym, lacking the slightly archaic tone of the original phrase.

Coming near

Similar to "approaching" but slightly more descriptive, implying a reduction in distance.

Nearing

A simple and direct synonym, suitable for most contexts.

On the horizon

Suggests that something is becoming apparent or is about to happen, often used figuratively.

In sight

Implies that the end or a specific goal is almost achieved or visible.

Looms

Suggests an impending event that is significant or possibly threatening.

Is imminent

Emphasizes that something is about to occur very soon.

Is impending

Similar to "is imminent" but can suggest a sense of foreboding or inevitability.

Nigh

A shorter, more archaic form of the original phrase, suitable for similar contexts.

Closing in

Suggests that something is getting closer and may soon affect the subject.

FAQs

What does "Drawing nigh" mean?

The phrase "Drawing nigh" means approaching or coming near. It is often used in a formal or literary context to indicate that something is imminent or about to happen.

When is it appropriate to use "Drawing nigh"?

It's best to use "Drawing nigh" in formal writing, historical contexts, or when aiming for a literary or poetic tone. In more casual settings, consider using alternatives like "approaching" or "coming near".

Which is more common, "Drawing nigh" or "Drawing near"?

"Drawing near" is more commonly used in contemporary English. "Drawing nigh" has a slightly archaic feel and is less frequently encountered.

What are some phrases similar to "Drawing nigh"?

Similar phrases include "approaching", "coming near", "nearing", or "is imminent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.