are closely packed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are closely packed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe objects or elements that are situated near each other with little space in between. Example: "The books on the shelf are closely packed, making it difficult to pull one out without disturbing the others."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

In the early stages of the evolution of planetary systems, after the planets form, they are closely packed, so their mutual perturbation helps develop orbit crossing and mutual close encounters.

Cornell University

Inside, small tables are closely packed in informal dining areas trimmed in dark wood.

The New York Times

The molecules in such liquids are closely packed, but loosely arranged.

The Economist

In the duodenum the villi are closely packed, large, and frequently leaflike in shape.

Encyclopedia Britannica

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS Main floor is at street level, but tables are closely packed and restrooms are down a narrow corridor.

The New York Times

The boundary of the ribbon is sharp, suggesting that the clay particles are closely packed or cohesive.

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Releasing the connecting cable, the structure is loosened and can be closely packed.

Engineering Structures

Benefiting from this unique architecture, these mesoporous LiFePO4/C microspheres can be closely packed, having high tap density.

Particuology

Such "top-shaped" eggs can be closely packed with the pointy ends inward, helping adults to efficiently cover them during incubation.

Stanford University

The auditorium is tightly planned, with the original 10-metre thrust stage faithfully recreated, around which the audience is closely packed.

The Guardian - Arts

Using this facile approach, Ag nanowires were closely packed and aligned parallel to each other sticking onto the capillary wall and forming a confined and uneven nanowire film.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing arrangements, consider using "are closely packed" to convey that components are near each other, touching, or filling space efficiently. For example: "The data points on the graph are closely packed, indicating a strong correlation."

Common error

While "are closely packed" is acceptable, it may sound too formal in casual conversation. Opt for alternatives like "are crammed" or "are bunched together" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are closely packed" functions as a descriptive verb phrase. It's used to indicate the spatial relationship between multiple items, emphasizing their proximity. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples in various scientific and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

12%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are closely packed" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe items or components positioned very near one another, emphasizing density or proximity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression appears predominantly in scientific, news and encyclopedic contexts. Alternatives include "are densely arranged" or "are tightly compacted", offering similar meanings. When incorporating "are closely packed" into your writing, ensure that the level of formality aligns with the overall tone, since it might result too formal in casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are densely arranged

Emphasizes the high density of the arrangement, focusing on the quantity of items within a given space.

are tightly compacted

Highlights the compression and lack of space between the elements.

are compactly arranged

Focuses on the efficient use of space and the organized manner of the arrangement.

are jammed together

Suggests a forceful and often disorganized packing, implying difficulty in separating the elements.

are huddled together

Implies a close gathering, often for warmth or protection, suggesting a less structured arrangement.

are crammed together

Emphasizes the limited space and the difficulty in fitting all the elements into the area.

are densely congregated

Highlights a large gathering in a small area, implying a degree of formality or intention.

are solidly massed

Focuses on the formation of a cohesive block or group, emphasizing the lack of gaps or spaces.

are pressed together

Indicates that the elements are held firmly in contact, often due to external force or constraint.

are packed like sardines

Uses a simile to convey extreme closeness and crowding, often used figuratively.

FAQs

How can I use "are closely packed" in a sentence?

Use "are closely packed" to describe items or entities positioned very near each other, leaving minimal space between them. Example: "The seats in the theater "are closely packed" together."

What are some alternatives to "are closely packed"?

Alternatives include "are densely arranged", "are tightly compacted", or "are compactly arranged", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "are closely packed" in formal writing?

Yes, "are closely packed" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in scientific or technical contexts where precise descriptions of arrangements are necessary. It accurately conveys the idea of items being positioned very near one another.

What's the difference between "are closely packed" and "are tightly packed"?

"Are closely packed" generally describes proximity, whereas "are tightly packed" implies both proximity and a degree of force or compression. While often interchangeable, "are tightly packed" suggests a more forceful arrangement, as in, "The grains of sand "are tightly packed" after the rain."