a nearby

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nearby" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is close in distance or proximity to a specific location or object. Example: "We decided to have lunch at a nearby café after our meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A nearby suburb?

The New York Times

Amar mentioned a nearby neighborhood.

The New Yorker

Relatives took her to a nearby hospital.

Independent

The clamor echoed off a nearby hotel.

The New York Times

A nearby clothes retailer was less lucky.

The Economist

A nearby school was placed on lockdown.

The New York Times

A nearby neon sign suggested, "Eat pie".

The New Yorker

He goes to a nearby state school.

The Economist

Jones was in a nearby coffee shop.

The Guardian

I'm watching from a nearby home.

The New Yorker

A nearby hydrant flowed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a nearby", ensure the context clearly establishes what the point of reference is. For example, "a nearby store" requires the reader to know which location is being referenced.

Common error

Avoid using "a nearby" without a clear point of reference. If the context doesn't make it obvious what is nearby, specify the reference point to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nearby" functions primarily as an adjectival modifier. It describes a noun by indicating that it is located close to a specific point of reference. Ludwig provides numerous examples where "a nearby" modifies nouns like "hotel", "school", "hospital", etc., specifying their proximity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a nearby" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something located close to a specific reference point. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts, including news, general articles, and wiki content. While versatile, ensure the reference point is clear to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "in close proximity" or "just around the corner", depending on the desired nuance. Remember, clarity is key: always specify the reference point when using "a nearby" to enhance understanding and prevent confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in close proximity

Focuses on the closeness of the location, emphasizing how near it is.

in the immediate area

Emphasizes the location is right in the surrounding zone.

a short distance away

States the nearness in terms of how far it is, keeping it simple.

in the vicinity

Indicates a surrounding area, suggesting the location is not far off.

situated close by

Formally states the location is not far from a reference point.

close at hand

Suggests the location is readily available and easily reached.

just around the corner

Implies a very short distance, making it easily accessible.

within walking distance

Highlights that the location is near enough to be reached by walking.

within reach

Implies that the location is near enough to be accessed or obtained easily.

easily accessible

Focuses on the convenience of reaching the location, suggesting it is close.

FAQs

How can I use "a nearby" in a sentence?

Use "a nearby" to describe something that is close in proximity to a known location. For example, "We went to a nearby restaurant after the movie".

What are some alternatives to saying "a nearby"?

You can use alternatives like "in close proximity", "just around the corner", or "within walking distance depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "nearby to" instead of "a nearby"?

While "nearby" can function as an adverb or adjective, using "nearby to" is less common and often sounds awkward. It's generally better to use "near to" or simply "nearby" before the noun.

What's the difference between "a nearby" and "an adjacent" location?

"A nearby" location suggests a general closeness, while "an adjacent" location implies that the two locations share a boundary or are immediately next to each other. "An adjacent location is more specific about physical connection.