a close term

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a close term" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a word or phrase that is similar or nearly equivalent to another in meaning. Example: "In the context of this discussion, 'sustainable' is a close term to 'eco-friendly'."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And as the mayor's second and final term draws to a close (term limits preclude a threepeat), the city is about to be inherited by someone of a very different temperament.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Direct investment requires a close long-term relationship between the investor and the company that is invested in.This is an advantage in some ways.

The Economist

This is manifested in a close long-term commitment to the member "group," be that a family, extended family, or extended relationships.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Meanwhile, Greg enjoys a close, long-term  friendship with Earl, a black teen we're told is from a tough neighborhood.

Los Angeles Times

She was avowedly nonmonogamous; when they met she was already in a close long-term relationship with Duchess Elisabeth de Clermont-Tonnerre, which would last until the Duchess' death in 1954.

Wikipedia

Some of these symbioses are likely to be ancient, and their establishment in nutrient-rich coastal regions where free-living Synechococcus are particularly common [ 43] is possibly encouraged via a close, long-term association [ 44].

BMC Ecology

From the research councils' point of view, the scheme not only fosters rich training for early career researchers, but it also promotes "a closer long term collaboration between academia and industry".

Science Magazine

A European Union representative in Sudan said the bloc "looks forward to further developing a close and long- term partnership with Southern Sudan".

BBC

Trudeau's Liberal party is billing this first official visit as an opportunity to build a closer long-term relationship with China compared with what party members call the "ad hoc" relations of the past.

The Guardian

And all of this — "if we like it and they like us," Mr. Christie said in what sounded like a foregone conclusion — is merely prelude to a closer, longer-term connection in the years that follow.

The New York Times - Arts

"Vegan" is the closest term, though an inadequate one, for his shojin ryori, or "devotion cuisine," derived from Buddhist temples near Kyoto.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a close term", ensure the context clearly indicates that you are referring to a concept, phrase, or idea that is similar or nearly equivalent to another.

Common error

Avoid using "a close term" if the terms being compared are only loosely related. The phrase implies a high degree of similarity or equivalence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a close term" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a subsequent word or phrase shares a strong semantic relationship with another. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for emphasizing similarity in meaning. Ludwig's examples highlight its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a close term" is a useful linguistic tool to emphasize a strong semantic connection between two words, phrases, or concepts. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct, finding common usage across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. While the phrase implies a high degree of similarity, ensure that the context supports this equivalence to prevent misunderstandings. Alternatives such as "a similar term" or "a related term" may be more appropriate when the relationship is less direct. By understanding the function, purpose, and register of "a close term", writers can effectively use it to enhance clarity and precision in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a synonymous term

Indicates that the terms have the same or nearly the same meaning.

a nearly equivalent term

Highlights the near equivalence in meaning.

a closely related term

Emphasizes the degree of relatedness between the terms.

a similar expression

Emphasizes similarity in linguistic formulation rather than proximity or connection.

a term with similar meaning

Directly states the similarity in meaning.

a parallel expression

Highlights that the alternative expression is in direct correspondence and is similar in its formulation.

a related concept

Focuses on the conceptual link rather than the exact wording.

a comparable phrase

Highlights the equivalence or substitutability of the term.

a kindred term

Suggests a relationship or connection of a similar kind.

an analogous phrase

Highlights an analogy or resemblance in meaning or use.

FAQs

How can I use "a close term" in a sentence?

Use "a close term" to indicate that one expression or concept is very similar to another. For instance, "In the context of environmental policy, 'conservation' is a close term to 'preservation'.

What's a synonymous to "a close term"?

Alternatives include "a similar term", "a related term", or "a synonymous term".

Is it appropriate to use "a close term" in academic writing?

Yes, "a close term" is appropriate in academic writing when you need to point out that two terms or concepts are very similar or have overlapping meanings. It helps to clarify understanding and prevent misinterpretations.

What is the difference between "a close term" and "a related term"?

"A close term" implies a higher degree of similarity or equivalence than "a related term". While related terms may have some connection, close terms are nearly interchangeable in certain contexts.