are getting close to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are getting close to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone or something is approaching a particular point, goal, or situation. Example: "The team is working hard and are getting close to completing the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Things are getting close to our area.

The Guardian

The Redskins are getting close to reaching the top again.

The Washington Post

We are getting close to a fuller understanding of the process that could transform our capabilities.

Powder Technology

"And they are getting close to that, if not over that edge".

The New York Times

I think we are getting close to figuring out what a sport is.

The New Yorker

Now, he said, it appears "that they are getting close to that goal".

The New York Times

He added, "We are getting close to being a real contender for all things this year".

The New York Times - Sports

By that measure, sales have not completely recovered but are getting close to peak levels.

The New York Times

Sometimes it seems that we are getting close to overcoming these barriers.

The Washington Post

We are getting close to what might be called The Noah Scenario.

The Guardian

We are getting information that the invaders are getting close to our lands.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are getting close to" when you want to convey that progress is being made, but the destination or goal hasn't been reached yet. It's ideal for situations where the process matters.

Common error

While "are getting close to" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overuse in highly formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise alternatives like "are approaching" or "are nearing" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are getting close to" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating an ongoing process of approximation or nearing a specific goal, location, or state. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is commonly used to express that someone or something is approaching a particular point, goal, or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

15%

Science

16%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are getting close to" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating ongoing progress toward a goal or target. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. While it's generally acceptable, writers should consider the formality of their writing and opt for alternatives like "are nearing" or "are approaching" in more formal settings. With a high frequency in News & Media and significant presence in Academia and Science, this phrase serves as a practical way to convey nearness without implying completion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are approaching

Emphasizes the act of drawing nearer; suitable for formal contexts.

are nearing

Similar to approaching but suggests a greater degree of proximity.

are drawing near to

More emphatic and literary than "are approaching".

are coming closer to

Highlights the continuous movement toward a target.

are on the verge of

Indicates imminent occurrence or completion.

are about to reach

Focuses on the act of reaching a specific point.

are within reach of

Stresses the attainability of a goal.

are verging on

Implies moving towards a new state or condition, often a negative one.

are in proximity to

More formal way of stating that something is near.

are a stone's throw from

Expresses physical proximity in an informal, idiomatic way.

FAQs

What does "are getting close to" mean?

The phrase "are getting close to" signifies that someone or something is in the process of approaching a specific target, goal, or location. It implies movement and progress towards a defined endpoint.

When should I use "are getting close to" instead of "are approaching"?

While both phrases indicate nearness, "are getting close to" often suggests a more gradual and continuous movement. "Are approaching" can imply a more direct and immediate movement toward a destination.

What are some alternatives to "are getting close to"?

You can use alternatives like "are nearing", "are approaching", or "are on the verge of" depending on the context.

Is "are getting close to" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "are getting close to" may be considered less formal. In professional or academic contexts, consider using alternatives such as "are approaching" or "are drawing near to" for a more polished tone.