I were close

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I were close" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
However, it may sound more informal and conversational compared to the more standard "I was close." Example: "I were close to finishing my project, but then my computer crashed and I lost all my work."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

He and I were close".

The New York Times

Mum and I were close when I was a child.

The New Yorker

Everyone knew that she and I were close.

The New Yorker

Teresa and I were close in age; we bonded easily.

The New Yorker

"Directors don't know each other that well, usually, but Sidney and I were close.

The New York Times

It was the perfect situation, too, because Junior and I were close enough in age.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

I'm close.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, I was close.

The New Yorker

"I feel I'm close.

The New Yorker

"I'm close to Raymond.

The New Yorker

I'm close to him.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using a non-standard grammatical form such as "I were close", ensure it aligns with the intended tone and context. This form may suit informal or dialectal writing but should be avoided in formal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "I were" in standard English writing where "I was" is grammatically correct. "I were" is typically used in subjunctive clauses, not in simple past tense statements. For example, use "I wish I were taller" (subjunctive) but "I was close to the edge" (simple past).

Linguistic Context

The phrase implies a state of nearness or proximity. While Ludwig AI confirms the phrase "I were close" is grammatically correct, it also specifies that it's less common and potentially informal compared to "I was close".

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while Ludwig confirms that the phrase "I were close" can be grammatically acceptable, its usage is generally considered non-standard and informal. It is more suitable for specific dialectal contexts or subjunctive mood constructions rather than typical past tense statements. For formal or general English, "I was close" remains the preferred phrasing. When aiming for clarity and grammatical correctness, it's advisable to use the standard form unless a specific stylistic effect is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

We were nearly there

Focuses on spatial or figurative proximity to a destination or goal.

We were almost there

Similar to "nearly there", emphasizing a near miss or achievement.

We were practically there

Conveys a sense of being very close, almost as good as being there.

We were intimate

Indicates a close, personal relationship.

We were just about to

Indicates an action was on the immediate point of happening.

We were on the verge

Highlights being at the brink of a significant event or change.

We shared a deep bond

Suggests a strong emotional connection between individuals.

We were within reach

Focuses on attainability; the object or goal was close enough to be reached.

We were approaching

Emphasizes the act of drawing nearer, either physically or metaphorically.

We were kindred spirits

Implies a shared understanding and connection on a deeper level.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "I were" instead of "I was"?

The form "I were" is typically used in subjunctive mood, expressing a wish or hypothetical situation, such as "I wish "I were" taller". In most other contexts, "I was" is the correct form.

What are some alternatives to "I was close" that maintain a formal tone?

Formal alternatives include phrases such as "I was near", "I was in proximity", or "I was in close proximity". These options provide a more professional tone while retaining the original meaning.

How does using "I were close" affect the perceived formality of my writing?

Using "I were close" can make your writing sound informal or even dialectal. In standard English, "I was close" is the preferred phrasing unless you're using the subjunctive mood.

Which is correct, "I was close" or "I were close"?

"I was close" is the grammatically standard form for past tense statements. "I were close" might be acceptable in specific, non-standard dialects or in subjunctive constructions, but it is generally not correct in formal or general English.