apparent closeness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apparent closeness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something seems to be close or intimate, but may not actually be so in reality. Example: "Despite their apparent closeness, they had very different values and beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Mr Orban's apparent closeness to Russia is at odds with much of his past.

The Telegraph

Storm's own credentials as a militant were reaffirmed continually by his apparent closeness to well-known activists and ideologues.

The Guardian - Books

Given the apparent closeness of the call — and Congress's role in overseeing presidential behavior — it is crucial that Mr. Barr's vague description of the obstruction question not be the last word on the matter.

The Washington Post

A senior humanitarian worker in Syria said there was a particular problem with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, which has been criticised for its apparent closeness to the Syrian government.

The Guardian

But despite the apparent closeness of the relationship, Wang used bugging and other surveillance equipment to monitor Bo and people around him, a source in Beijing with close ties to officials told the agency.

The Guardian

Despite her apparent closeness with the Prime Minister's family, it is understood that Ms Batmanghelidjh has not met Mr Cameron since shortly after he became Prime Minister in 2010.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

There's a mutual affection, a comfort and ease that only comes from closeness, that's apparent even over a Skype interview 3,600 miles away.

The Washington Post

The importance to him of a closeness to nature was apparent in his roofless studio.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Karen, whose closeness to her father is apparent, smiles.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While there is some sympathy for the idea that Mr Blair has been a restraining influence on the Americans, his closeness to Mr Bush and apparent keenness to go to war is disturbing to many Europeans in a way that Mr Schröder's quasi-pacifism and even Mr Chirac's Gaullist posturing are not.

The Economist

The closeness of the finish has now become apparent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "apparent closeness" when you want to convey that a relationship or connection appears to be close, but you are unsure if it is genuinely so. This phrase is useful for maintaining objectivity.

Common error

Avoid using "apparent closeness" when you have concrete evidence of a deep, authentic connection. In such cases, phrases like "strong bond" or "deep connection" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apparent closeness" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "apparent" modifies the noun "closeness". It describes a state or quality that is outwardly visible or perceived, but may not be entirely accurate or genuine. Ludwig AI shows this is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apparent closeness" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a relationship or situation where there is a perceived, but not necessarily genuine, level of intimacy or connection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is perfectly acceptable in written English. This phrase, as seen in the provided examples from Ludwig, is frequently found in news and media contexts, allowing for a degree of objectivity. Related phrases, such as "seeming intimacy" or "perceived proximity", offer subtle variations in meaning. When using this phrase, it's important to avoid assuming a genuine connection and to use it when you want to highlight the potential difference between appearance and reality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Seeming intimacy

Focuses on the impression of a deep, personal connection that may or may not be genuine.

Perceived proximity

Emphasizes the perception of being near or connected, whether physically or emotionally.

Superficial familiarity

Highlights that the closeness is only on the surface and lacks depth.

Illusory bond

Suggests that the connection is misleading and not based on reality.

Ostensible affinity

Implies a stated or presented connection that might not be truly felt.

Surface-level rapport

Emphasizes that the connection is only at a basic, introductory level.

Nominal connection

Highlights a connection that exists in name only, lacking genuine substance.

Outward congeniality

Refers to friendliness and pleasantness displayed on the surface.

Assumed intimacy

Indicates that closeness is taken for granted, potentially without justification.

Feigned nearness

Implies a deliberately simulated or pretended sense of closeness.

FAQs

How can I use "apparent closeness" in a sentence?

You can use "apparent closeness" to describe relationships or situations where there is a surface-level connection that may not reflect the true nature of the relationship. For example, "Despite their apparent closeness, they rarely confided in each other".

What phrases are similar to "apparent closeness"?

Alternatives include "seeming intimacy", "perceived proximity", or "superficial familiarity". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "apparent closeness" always negative in connotation?

Not necessarily. While it often suggests a lack of genuine connection, "apparent closeness" can also be used neutrally to simply describe an observed relationship without making a judgment about its authenticity.

What's the difference between "apparent closeness" and "genuine closeness"?

"Apparent closeness" suggests a superficial or perceived connection, while "genuine closeness" indicates a real, deep, and authentic bond. The former implies a possibility of disconnect, while the latter confirms a strong connection.