barely close

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "barely close" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is almost, but not quite, close to something else. Example: The runner crossed the finish line, barely close behind the first-place winner.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The boot will barely close.

The Guardian

When she could barely close the lid, she sent the box home.

The New Yorker

But she seems stalled between capricious gestures, like dresses that barely close in front (why?) and archetypes that feel exhaustingly pure.

The New York Times

We made podcasts about music lyrics and filled our favourite books so full with annotated sticky notes that they would barely close.

Independent

Earl Campbell, a Hall of Fame running back, could barely close his fist or bend his knees or control his feet.

The New York Times

Can you imagine living in the middle of winter, without a fire on, with doors that barely close, with windows that are glued with paper?

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Marcela's suit was so tight that the pants barely closed around her waist.

The New Yorker

Many homeowners, including Mr. Bacote, disagree, and cite the banging heaters, damaged walls and barely closing doors as evidence.

The New York Times

The door had barely closed behind me when I heard the sound of stampeding little footsteps accompanied by cries of joy and complaint.

The New Yorker

But Mr. Bradley had barely closed the coffin on his Presidential campaign before he doused any speculation about a bid for Governor.

The New York Times

Indeed, the door had barely closed before it swung open again, and a young woman with a small dog on a leash strolled in.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a physical object, consider the degree of effort involved. For example, "the door was so warped it would "barely close"" suggests difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "barely close" when you mean completely shut. "Barely close" indicates something is almost, but not entirely, closed. Using it to describe something sealed would be inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "barely close" functions as an adverbial modifier describing the action of closing. It indicates the degree to which something is closed, suggesting it is only just closed or almost closed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Reference

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "barely close" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes something that is nearly closed but not quite, often implying a struggle or imprecision in the act of closing. As Ludwig AI validates, it's used to convey a state of near closure. While appearing in various contexts, it finds prominence in News & Media. Alternatives include "almost shut" or "nearly closed". When using "barely close", ensure it accurately reflects the degree of closure you intend to convey. This summary provides a comprehensive overview for accurate and effective use of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Nearly closed

Emphasizes the state of being close to closure with a slight shift in vocabulary.

Just about closed

Adds a conversational tone, stressing the imminence of closure.

Almost shut

Focuses on the action of closing rather than the degree of closeness.

Close to being closed

Changes the sentence structure to focus on the potential for closure.

Hardly closed

Similar to scarcely closed, but conveys a sense of difficulty or effort.

Scarcely closed

Highlights the minimal extent of the closing action, using a more formal term.

On the verge of closing

Emphasizes the imminent nature of the closing action.

Barely touching

Shifts the focus from closure to the act of touching, implying a minimal connection.

A hair's breadth away from closing

Uses idiomatic expression to indicate a very small distance from closure.

Slightly ajar

Describes the opposite end with a different expression but shares a similar meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "barely close" in a sentence?

You can use "barely close" to describe something that is almost closed, but not completely. For example, "The suitcase was so full that it would "barely close"".

What does "barely close" mean?

"Barely close" means that something is only just closed, or almost closed. It implies a state of nearness to being closed, but not fully so.

What are some alternatives to saying "barely close"?

You can use alternatives like "almost shut", "nearly closed", or "scarcely closed" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the door barely closes"?

Yes, "the door barely closes" is grammatically correct. However, "the door would "barely close"" emphasizes a struggle or difficulty in closing.