become intimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become intimate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of developing a close, personal relationship with someone, often implying emotional or physical closeness. Example: "As they spent more time together, they began to become intimate, sharing their deepest thoughts and feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Gradually you become intimate with the leader.

The Guardian

* * * "I have not managed to become intimate with anyone here.

The New Yorker

Russian teenagers will once again become intimate with the Kalashnikov.

The New York Times

You can imagine how easy it is to become intimate.

The Guardian

You can still become intimate with the audience.

The Guardian - Music

By the time Adèle and Emma become intimate, a pace has already been set.

Independent

Very quickly, these life history interviews can become intimate, and indeed we celebrate such deepening.

Columbia University

The bathroom is where we first become intimate with our babies' bodies.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They all had to become intimate with computers and the Internet.

The New York Times

Science fairs foster original research and help students become intimate with scientific method.

The New York Times

But if Lord Auckland can become intimate with his sister, I say keep going.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become intimate" to describe a process of developing emotional or physical closeness. Ensure the context clearly indicates the type of intimacy you are referring to.

Common error

Avoid using "become intimate" when a more superficial or casual relationship is intended. Use phrases like "become acquainted" or "get to know" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become intimate" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often serving as the predicate of a clause. It describes the process of developing a close, personal relationship, whether emotional or physical, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become intimate" is a verb phrase used to describe the process of developing a close and personal relationship, either emotionally or physically. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academia. While its register is considered neutral, it's crucial to consider the specific context to ensure appropriateness. When choosing alternatives, consider options like "develop a close bond" or "grow closer" to emphasize different nuances of the relationship. Avoid misinterpreting the depth of the connection to use it in a correct way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop a close bond

Emphasizes emotional connection and mutual understanding.

form a deep connection

Highlights the profound nature of the relationship.

grow closer

Focuses on the gradual process of building intimacy.

establish rapport

Implies a harmonious and understanding relationship.

cultivate intimacy

Suggests a deliberate and nurturing approach to building closeness.

build a personal relationship

Emphasizes the development of a connection beyond a professional or casual level.

connect on a deeper level

Highlights the increased emotional understanding between individuals.

foster closeness

Indicates creating an environment conducive to intimacy.

get to know each other well

Focuses on acquiring a comprehensive understanding of another person.

become acquainted

Refers to the initial stages of getting to know someone.

FAQs

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

You can use "become intimate" to describe the process of developing a close, personal relationship with someone, implying emotional or physical closeness. For example: "Over time, they "became intimate", sharing their dreams and fears."

What are some alternatives to "become intimate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "develop a close bond", "grow closer", or "form a deep connection".

Is "become intimate" formal or informal?

"Become intimate" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's important to consider the specific nuance and appropriateness for your audience. In more formal settings, consider alternatives like "establish rapport".

Does "become intimate" always refer to a romantic relationship?

No, "become intimate" doesn't always imply a romantic relationship. It can also refer to developing a close, personal connection with a friend or family member. Context is key to understanding the intended meaning.