become closest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become closest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of reaching a point of proximity or similarity to something or someone. Example: "Over the years, we have become closest in our shared experiences and understanding of each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The man I was to become closest to — Fruto Lacayo, a former circus fat man who stood seven inches shorter but outweighed me by some forty pounds — was the first to voice his complaints.

The New Yorker

The man I was to become closest to—Fruto Lacayo, a former circus fat man who stood seven inches shorter but outweighed me by some forty pounds was the first to voice his complaints.

The New Yorker

He would convene there with the likes of Chesterton, Belloc and Edward Thomas, as well as with the fellow novelist to whom he would become closest, Ford Madox Ford.

The Guardian - Books

Eventually, Musk said, SpaceX plans to double the number of flights each time Mars and Earth become closest to each other, which happens every 26 months.

TechCrunch

Those are the people I have become closest to.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"You become close as people.

The New York Times - Sports

Derrick and Glen Beck, however, had become close friends.

The New Yorker

"We started to become closer," she said.

The New York Times

The two kickers have become close.

The New York Times - Sports

You become closer because of it".

Independent

You didn't become close after that?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become closest" when you want to emphasize a gradual process of developing a strong connection or proximity over time, especially when compared to other potential relationships or entities.

Common error

Avoid using "become closest" when simply trying to indicate the nearest object or person in a general sense. "Nearest" or "closest" without "become" is more appropriate for physical proximity. "He is my nearest neighbor" is preferred over "He has become closest to my house."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become closest" functions as a dynamic descriptor, illustrating a process of developing nearness or intimacy. Ludwig examples indicate its use in narrating relationships and spatial arrangements. It showcases a gradual change over time.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "become closest" is a grammatically correct way to describe a process of reaching a state of maximum nearness or intimacy, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. While not exceptionally common, it's readily understood and primarily found in news, media, and science contexts. It is used to convey how relationships and proximity evolve over time. Remember that it is often related to a comparison with other possibilities. Consider "come closer" as a simpler and more direct alternative, or "grow nearest" to emphasize the gradual progression. Avoid using "become closest" when describing simple proximity; instead, stick to "closest" or "nearest" in those cases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come closer

A more direct way of expressing the act of reducing distance or increasing connection.

grow nearest

Focuses on the gradual increase in physical or emotional proximity.

develop intimacy

Emphasizes the emotional aspect of becoming closer, focusing on creating a sense of closeness and deep connection.

cultivate closeness

Highlights the effort and intention involved in forming a close relationship or connection.

foster intimacy

Similar to "cultivate closeness", but with a stronger emphasis on nurturing and promoting deeper connections.

build rapport

Focuses on creating a harmonious and understanding relationship.

strengthen ties

Highlights the reinforcement of existing bonds or relationships.

draw nearer

Suggests a physical or metaphorical movement towards closeness.

form a bond

Highlights the creation of a connection between individuals or entities.

deepen relations

Emphasizes the act of enriching and strengthening existing relationships.

FAQs

How can I use "become closest" in a sentence?

Use "become closest" to describe a gradual process of developing a close relationship or achieving proximity. For example, "Over time, we "become closest" through shared experiences".

What are some alternatives to "become closest"?

You can use alternatives like "grow nearest", "develop intimacy", or "come closer" depending on the desired nuance.

Is it grammatically correct to say "become closest"?

Yes, "become closest" is grammatically correct, but it's crucial to ensure the context implies a process of achieving nearness or intimacy. It is typically followed by 'to' or 'with'.

What's the difference between "become close" and "become closest"?

"Become close" indicates reaching a state of nearness or intimacy, while "become closest" suggests reaching the highest degree of nearness or intimacy compared to other possibilities. The latter implies a comparative aspect.