are getting closer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are getting closer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two or more entities are approaching each other in distance, time, or understanding. Example: "As the deadline approaches, we are getting closer to finalizing the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Atletico are getting closer.

The Guardian - Sport

The blasts are getting closer.

The Guardian

But we are getting closer.

The Guardian

"Now we are getting closer".

The Guardian - Film

They run; the planes are getting closer.

The Guardian - Books

They are getting closer to Baghdad's suburbs.

The Guardian

The midterm elections are getting closer.

The New Yorker

But others are getting closer to that.

The New York Times - Science

But we are getting closer and closer".

The New York Times

"If not, they are getting closer to that level".

The New York Times

"We are getting closer to the truth," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are getting closer" in formal writing, consider if a more direct synonym like "approaching" or "nearing" would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "are getting closer" when a more specific verb would provide greater clarity. For example, instead of saying "Negotiations are getting closer to a resolution", say "Negotiations are progressing" or "Negotiations are advancing" to provide a clearer picture of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are getting closer" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the progressive movement or state of approaching something. It describes a process of reduction in distance or difference, whether physical or metaphorical. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are getting closer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe an ongoing approach toward a specific point or goal. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts. While it's versatile, writers should be mindful of choosing more precise language when appropriate. This phrase is commonly found in news and media, indicating neutral formality. Remember to consider synonyms like "approaching" or "drawing nearer" to enhance your writing's clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are drawing nearer

This alternative emphasizes the visual aspect of something becoming nearer in space or time.

are approaching

A more formal and direct way of saying something is becoming closer, suitable for professional contexts.

are nearing

This alternative is slightly more concise and formal than the original phrase.

are converging

Implies that different entities are moving together toward a common point or goal.

are edging closer

This suggests a slow, incremental approach.

are advancing

This alternative suggests forward movement or progress.

are gaining ground

Used when progress is being made, often in a competitive situation.

are on the horizon

Suggests something is likely to happen or appear in the future.

are in sight

Suggests something is now visible or achievable.

are on the verge

Indicates that something is about to happen imminently.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are getting closer"?

You can use alternatives like "are drawing nearer", "are approaching", or "are nearing" depending on the specific context.

When is it best to use the phrase "are getting closer"?

The phrase "are getting closer" is suitable when you want to indicate that something is gradually approaching a specific point, either physically, temporally, or conceptually. For more formal contexts, "approaching" might be preferred.

What's the difference between "are getting closer" and "are getting nearer"?

While very similar, "are getting closer" generally implies a decrease in distance, whereas "are getting nearer" /s/are+getting+nearer often refers to a reduction in either physical or abstract distance, such as in a relationship or agreement.

Is "are getting closer" formal or informal?

"Are getting closer" is generally considered neutral in tone. While appropriate for most contexts, including news and media, more formal options like "approaching" might be preferable in academic or professional writing.