approach closely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approach closely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of getting near to someone or something in a careful or attentive manner. Example: "As we approached closely to the wild animal, we made sure to keep our distance to avoid startling it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Just as two cars moving in opposite directions may approach closely when separated by a double yellow line, two planes could safely approach closely if each knew the other's plan.

The New York Times

This novel approach closely approximates the in vivo DDT exposure route.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids

Google's approach closely mirrors that of Netflix and on-demand video, a model that has since spread to e-books, music and live television.

The Washington Post

While the breeding ranges of these species approach closely or narrowly overlap, a precise definition being elusive, the chief wintering ranges for these species are rather widely disjunct.

Cornell University

"Our approach closely mimics how APCs present their stimulating cues to primary T cells on their outer membrane and how they release soluble factors that enhance the survival of the T cells.

Harvard University

In this paper, a cohesive finite element method is proposed to characterize reinforcement/matrix interface and debonding phenomena occurring, a modeling approach closely related to the real microstructure of the particulate-reinforced nanocomposite.

Composite Structures

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

When prey approaches closely enough, the ambush bug grasps it with its front legs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Woodpeckers, toucans, and barbets are more wary, but the smaller species of piculets and woodpeckers sometimes can be approached closely.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This figure shows that as time increases the fractal dimension of the metastatic lesions approaches closely the one of the circulatory system.

EJNMMI Research

"Approaching closely or otherwise disturbing them to take a better photo is not fine".

Huffington Post

Generally, yellow stingrays pay little heed to divers and can be approached closely.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "approach closely", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to physical proximity or a close approximation of something.

Common error

Avoid using "approach closely" when you mean to convey a general similarity without any sense of physical proximity. Use "resemble closely" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approach closely" functions primarily as a verb phrase. Ludwig examples show its role in describing the manner in which something nears or resembles something else. Ludwig AI analysis affirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "approach closely" is a grammatically sound verb phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI, that describes either a physical nearing or a detailed resemblance. While its usage is considered uncommon, it appears across diverse contexts, from scientific literature to news reports. To ensure effective communication, remember that it's more appropriate to use alternatives like "resemble closely" when your intention is to express similarity and not literal physical proximity. Using the advice of this guide will help you write accurate and helpful content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

draw near

Implies a gradual reduction in distance.

come nearer

Suggests movement towards a specific point.

move closer

Emphasizes the act of reducing the space between two entities.

approximate closely

Focuses on similarity rather than physical proximity.

resemble closely

Highlights a strong similarity or likeness.

near intently

Suggests approaching with a focused intention.

border tightly

Used when something is almost touching, and can involve overlap.

converge narrowly

Implies coming together at a point, but in a delimited way.

touch intimately

Means an extremely close encounter, can be either physical or emotional.

mimic seamlessly

Suggests the simulation of what can be either concrete or abstract.

FAQs

How can I use "approach closely" in a sentence?

You can use "approach closely" to describe physically nearing something, as in "The photographer had to "move closer" to capture the detail", or to describe resembling something, as in "The new design "approximates closely" the original model".

What are some alternatives to "approach closely"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "draw near", "come nearer", or "approximate closely".

Is it better to say "approach closely" or "get close"?

While both are correct, "approach closely" is often perceived as more formal and precise, while "get close" is more casual. The best choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

When should I use "resemble closely" instead of "approach closely"?

Use "resemble closely" when you want to emphasize similarity rather than physical nearness. For example, "His painting style "resembles closely" that of Van Gogh".