becoming closer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "becoming closer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of increasing intimacy or proximity between people, groups, or things. Example: "Over the years, we have been becoming closer as friends, sharing our experiences and supporting each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

By now you have become a regular friend of his and you are becoming closer.

WikiHow

The relation between diagnosis and therapy is gradually becoming closer as ever more sophisticated diagnostic tools and new therapeutic strategies become available (Greco et al, 1998; Cady, 2000).

British Journal of Cancer

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

"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

Yet the fact that links with the Americas and Asia are becoming closer is just a return to the commercial liaisons of the past.

The Economist

They acknowledged becoming closer, however, while living in New York years later; their Upper East Side homes were only blocks apart.

The New York Times

We have come to understand each other better, and our positions are becoming closer on the key issues of bilateral and international relations.

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

"As we make clear that the date for our leaving Gaza is becoming closer, so they have decided to get organized," Mr. Peres said in an interview in his Tel Aviv office after the meeting with Mr. Sharon.

The New York Times

The leaked paper argues that the EU should strengthen its economic and cultural links with Russia, an approach it calls "growing closer by interweaving" (which explains why some have dubbed it a "new Ostpolitik", given that this was based on the mantra "change through becoming closer").

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "growing closer" or "drawing nearer" to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "becoming closer" when referring to an instantaneous event. The phrase implies a process that unfolds over time, not a sudden change. Instead, consider alternatives like "converged" or "met" if describing a singular occurrence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "becoming closer" functions as a verb phrase, often used as part of a continuous verb tense. It describes an ongoing process of increasing proximity, whether physically, emotionally, or conceptually. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "becoming closer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates a gradual increase in proximity, intimacy, or agreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is applicable across diverse contexts, ranging from formal news reports and scientific publications to informal conversations. When using "becoming closer", remember its emphasis on a continuous process rather than a single event. Consider synonyms like "growing closer" or "drawing nearer" to add variety to your writing. By understanding its nuances and context-specific implications, you can effectively use "becoming closer" to convey your intended meaning with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Growing closer

Emphasizes a gradual increase in closeness or intimacy.

Drawing nearer

Highlights the reduction of distance, either physical or metaphorical.

Getting closer

A more colloquial way of expressing the same idea of increasing proximity.

Approaching

Focuses on the act of nearing a specific point or state.

Converging

Implies a coming together from different directions or perspectives.

Developing intimacy

Specifically refers to building a closer emotional connection.

Strengthening ties

Focuses on reinforcing existing connections or relationships.

Forging bonds

Implies creating new relationships or connections.

Building rapport

Emphasizes establishing a harmonious and understanding relationship.

Finding common ground

Highlights the discovery of shared beliefs or interests, leading to closer understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "becoming closer" in a sentence?

You can use "becoming closer" to describe increasing intimacy, proximity, or agreement between people, things, or ideas. For example: "Over time, the two companies are "becoming closer" to a merger agreement."

What are some alternatives to saying "becoming closer"?

Alternatives include "growing closer", "drawing nearer", "getting closer", or "approaching" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "becoming closer" and "getting closer"?

While both phrases express increasing proximity, "becoming closer" might suggest a more gradual or formal process, whereas "getting closer" is often more casual and can imply a more immediate sense of progress.

When is it inappropriate to use "becoming closer"?

It's best to avoid using "becoming closer" when referring to a single, instantaneous event. The phrase implies a process happening over time. Consider using a more direct term like "connected" or "met" in such cases.