again so close

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "again so close" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a sense of proximity or similarity that has occurred once more. Example: "After all these years, we find ourselves again so close to achieving our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The prime minister, François Fillon, has sent two aid aircraft, carrying medical staff and supplies, to the rebel-held town of Benghazi.France plainly does not want to find itself again so close to being on the wrong side of history.

The Economist

Quite why he's changed it again so close to release is unclear, but with the announcement came an amended track list: #waves pic.twitter.com/fyER7NH8DC Waves will be released on 11 February,  featuring tracks "Good Friends" and the previously released Kendrick Lamar collaboration "No More Parties in LA".

Independent

Why raise money again, so close to your Series A? Well, the simple answer is because founders Ben Silbermann and Paul Sciarra can.

TechCrunch

Again so close for Blackburn, Ben Marshall plays a low ball across the six-yard box and from close range and at full stretch Jordan Rhodes can only divert the ball onto the post.

BBC

Again so close for Bristol City, first David Marshall saves from Joe Bryan and then from the resulting rebound Elliott Bennett crashes a half-volley against the outside of the post.

BBC

Twenty-four minutes were left to be played, but the game was never again so close or contested in what became a 121-104 Warriors victory.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Hopes were waning, fears were slowly solidifying into concrete blocks of reality and heads dropped in tune with spirits as the Bees faithful reckoned that we would once again fall short – once again come so close, but not far enough, as we had done so many times before, including this year against Chelsea.

The Guardian - Sport

"Every time we open up and try to work, they shoot at us again, so people close down again and run away," said Imad, a coffee shop owner.

BBC

The playwright never again ventured so close to contemporary politics.

The New Yorker

But Van de Velde never again got so close to winning a major.

The Guardian - Sport

I thought it was enough that Federer had once again come so close.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "again so close" to emphasize a recurring pattern of near misses or close calls, adding a sense of either frustration or anticipation.

Common error

Avoid using "again so close" when the context requires a more specific description of proximity. Overuse can dilute the impact; ensure it fits the tone and situation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "again so close" is to act as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the repeated nearness of an event or outcome. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in describing sporting events and political situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "again so close" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, typically employed to emphasize recurring near misses or close calls. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as an adverbial phrase and is most frequently found in News & Media and Sport contexts. While possessing a neutral register, it's crucial to tailor its usage to the specific context, avoiding overuse and ensuring it aligns with the desired tone. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "approaching closely once more". Ultimately, understanding the nuances of "again so close" allows for its effective use in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly there again

Emphasizes the almost-achieved status, repeated.

once again, almost within reach

Highlights repeated proximity to a goal.

yet again, just a hair's breadth away

Illustrates the small margin by which something was missed.

so near again, yet so far

Highlights the frustrating repetition of near misses.

close once more

A more concise way to express repeated nearness.

almost made it again

Focuses on the failure to quite achieve something, repeated.

just shy of it again

Emphasizes the slight lack preventing achievement, repeated.

again, within spitting distance

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey extreme closeness.

so near and dear again

Adds a sentimental element, implying something cherished was nearly attained.

approaching closely once more

A more formal way of expressing repeated nearness.

FAQs

What does "again so close" typically imply?

The phrase "again so close" suggests a recurring pattern of nearly achieving a goal or experiencing something, but ultimately falling short or not quite reaching it. It often carries a sense of frustration, disappointment, or anticipation depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "again so close" in writing?

Use "again so close" when you want to emphasize the repeated nature of a near miss or close call. It's effective in narratives, sports commentary, or discussions where recurring patterns of near-success are relevant.

What can I say instead of "again so close"?

You can use alternatives like "nearly there again", "once again, almost within reach", or "yet again, just a hair's breadth away" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "again so close" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "again so close" leans towards a more informal or conversational tone. For formal writing, consider using more precise and descriptive phrases like "approaching closely once more" to maintain a professional register.