at close range

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at close range" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to refer to a situation where two people or objects are very close together. For example: "The rifle was fired at close range, causing massive damage to the target."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Describes observing elephants at close range.

The New Yorker

Jones does things at close range.

The New Yorker

At close range, two bullets were enough.

The Guardian

I have been terrified at close range.

The New Yorker

He killed them all at close range.

The Guardian

The doctors said he was shot at close range.

The New York Times - Magazine

An autopsy indicated Chapman was not shot at close range.

The Guardian

"And at close range they just shot him".

The New Yorker

Twenty children shot at close range with an assault rifle.

The Guardian - Opinion

He was shot eight or nine times at close range.

The Guardian

Detectives said he had been shot at close range.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events such as shootings, use "at close range" to emphasize the proximity between the shooter and the victim, highlighting the intensity and potential brutality of the act. For example: "The victim was shot "at close range", indicating a deliberate act of violence."

Common error

Avoid using "at close range" when describing non-violent interactions where a neutral term like "nearby" or "in proximity" would be more appropriate. For example, describing observing wildlife, it is more suitable to say "observing elephants "nearby"" rather than "observing elephants "at close range"", unless you wish to evoke a sense of danger or immediacy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at close range" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed or the condition under which an event occurs. It specifies the proximity or distance at which something happens. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes events happening very near or in close proximity to the subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Wiki

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at close range" is a grammatically sound and widely used adverbial phrase that specifies proximity or nearness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. With a high frequency of occurrence, particularly in news and media contexts, it serves to emphasize the immediacy and intensity of described actions or events. The related phrases, such as "in close proximity" and "point-blank", offer nuanced alternatives depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis. When using the phrase, consider the connotations and context to avoid misapplication. Overall, "at close range" is a versatile and effective way to convey nearness in various forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

point-blank

This alternative refers to very close range, especially in shooting scenarios.

in close quarters

This alternative implies being close together, often in a confined space.

in close proximity

This alternative emphasizes the nearness, adding an extra layer of closeness.

at short distance

This alternative specifies that the range is not long.

within striking distance

This alternative suggests being near enough to attack or reach.

nearby

This alternative is a single word that expresses physical proximity.

inches away

This alternative is a literal expression of extreme closeness.

in proximity

This alternative is a more formal way of saying near, focusing on the state of being close.

in the vicinity

This alternative refers to the surrounding area, suggesting a general closeness.

face-to-face

This alternative indicates being directly in front of someone.

FAQs

How is "at close range" used in a sentence?

Use "at close range" to describe events or observations that happen very near or in close proximity to the subject. For example, "The photograph was taken "at close range", revealing intricate details."

What does "at close range" mean?

"At close range" means that something is happening or located very near to someone or something else. It emphasizes the nearness or proximity of the event or object.

Which is more appropriate, "at close range" or "nearby"?

The best choice depends on the context. Use "at close range" when you want to emphasize the intensity or potential impact of the proximity. Use "nearby" for a more neutral description of proximity.

What can I say instead of "at close range"?

You can use alternatives like "in close proximity", "point-blank", or "nearby" depending on the context.