becoming close to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "becoming close to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of developing a closer relationship or connection with someone or something. Example: "Over the years, I found myself becoming close to my colleagues, and we formed a strong bond."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

You do!" Simone soon befriended Hughes, and through him she dove into the beating heart of that era's young black intelligentsia, becoming close to both James Baldwin and Lorraine Hansberry, who would become godmother to Simone's daughter.

The New York Times

In fact, they suffered more than we did from becoming close to guests who then left after a few months.

The Guardian - Books

He spent a decade and a half moving up the hierarchy of the A.N.C., becoming close to the trade unions and Communists on the party's left.

The New Yorker

In particular, he gained valuable insights into himself and developed his values by doing business and becoming close to families who have grown grapes and made wine for generations.

The New York Times - Food

At the center of the lawsuit is Lisa T. Jackson, who for several years considered herself Mrs. Deen's right hand, helping manage her restaurants and becoming close to the Deen inner circle.

The New York Times

At its most raucous, the Garden crowd can both propel and eviscerate the steeliest of athletic wills, with the resulting decibel fervor -– "juice," as it is colloquially known -– often becoming close to an on-court sixth man.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

I'm not against universities becoming closer to business.

The Guardian

"You could see terrestrial ecosystems becoming closer to sources of carbon than to carbon sinks," he said.

The New York Times - Science

But by 1950 the Arabian peninsula was becoming closed to him, with the Saudi and Omani authorities blocking further travel.

The New York Times

"I think it is great that the museum is becoming closer to the street," said Sachiko Uozumi, a designer based in New York who attended the opening.

The New York Times

Far-fetched at the time, Catharine MacKinnon's 1981 statement, "Politically, I call it rape whenever a woman has sex and feels violated," is effectively becoming closer to law, even if it is not on the books.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "becoming close to", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to an emotional relationship, physical proximity, or a convergence of ideas. For emotional relationships use with people, for physical proximity use with locations.

Common error

Avoid using "becoming close to" when you simply mean 'encountering' or 'meeting'. "Becoming close to" implies a developing relationship or increasing proximity over time, not just a single instance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "becoming close to" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process of developing intimacy, proximity, or similarity. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is used to describe the action of forming connections or approaching a specific condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "becoming close to" is a versatile phrase used to describe the gradual development of relationships, physical proximity, or convergence of ideas. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While suitable for various contexts, it's essential to ensure that its implications of increasing intimacy or proximity are accurately conveyed. Be mindful of alternatives like "developing a close relationship with" or "growing closer to" to fine-tune the tone and level of formality. By understanding its function and potential pitfalls, you can effectively integrate "becoming close to" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

developing a close relationship with

Focuses on the relationship aspect and implies a gradual process.

forming a bond with

Emphasizes the creation of a strong connection or tie.

growing closer to

Highlights the progressive nature of the relationship.

getting to know well

Focuses on acquiring knowledge and understanding of the other person.

cultivating intimacy with

Implies deliberate effort to foster closeness.

fostering a connection with

Emphasizes nurturing and promoting a bond.

building rapport with

Highlights the establishment of mutual understanding and trust.

establishing intimacy with

Implies a formal establishment of close and personal relationships.

drawing nearer to

Suggests a physical or emotional movement towards someone.

approximating

Focuses on nearing a certain value or state.

FAQs

How can I use "becoming close to" in a sentence?

You can use "becoming close to" to describe the development of a relationship, such as "She found herself "becoming close to" her new colleagues after working together for several months." Alternatively, it can describe nearing a state or condition.

What is a good alternative to "becoming close to"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "becoming close to" include "developing a close relationship with", "growing closer to", or "forming a bond with". Each carries a slightly different nuance.

Is there a difference between "becoming close to" and "being close to"?

"Becoming close to" describes the process of developing a close relationship or proximity, whereas "being close to" describes the state of already having that established relationship or proximity. The first indicates a change over time, the second a current condition.

Can "becoming close to" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "becoming close to" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider alternatives like "developing a close relationship with" or "establishing intimacy with" in highly formal contexts to maintain a professional tone.