before it closes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "before it closes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a time frame or deadline prior to the closing of an event, opportunity, or location. Example: "Make sure to submit your application before it closes to ensure your chance of acceptance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To win, contestants on that train must scamper to board the express before it closes its doors.

The New York Times

Their bank is under-capitalised and saddled with bad loans, and it needs an injection of capital before it closes its mid-year accounts on September 30th.

The Economist

The company has closed to new business and will run down its existing customer accounts before it closes, which will not be before 2014.

BBC

Its operations are to be sold or transferred before it closes next March.

The Guardian

Catch it before it closes next month.

Independent

What can the Administration get through before it closes?

The New Yorker

What: Downtown companies take over the venerable Ohio Theater before it closes for good in August.

The New York Times

It anticipates a total of 20 million visits before it closes on Oct. 13.

The New Yorker

Out2Play is working to complete roughly 40 more playgrounds before it closes.

The New York Times

It's vital to get to the bakery before it closes at 12.30pm.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

BEFORE it closed for demolition in the fall of 2009, the Madison Beach Hotel was the kind of place you kept quiet about.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "before it closes" to create a sense of urgency and encourage prompt action. This is especially effective in marketing or informational contexts where a deadline is involved.

Common error

Avoid using "before it closes" in situations where the subject is unclear or has not been previously mentioned. Always make sure the reader knows exactly what is closing to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "before it closes" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating the time frame within which an action must occur. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to express a deadline or limitation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "before it closes" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that functions as an adverbial modifier to indicate a time constraint. According to Ludwig AI, its frequent use across news, academic, and general contexts underscores its versatility and comprehensibility. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject of "it" is clear to avoid ambiguity, and leverage its inherent sense of urgency to encourage timely action. Alternatives like "prior to closing" or "in advance of closing" can add a touch of formality if needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prior to closing

This alternative uses a more formal tone by using "prior to" instead of "before".

before the deadline

This alternative specifies a definite end time, providing a sense of urgency.

in advance of closing

Similar to "prior to closing" but with emphasis on being prepared.

before it shuts down

Replaces "closes" with "shuts down", suggesting a more permanent cessation.

before the end

This alternative is more general and may apply in different contexts.

while it is still open

This alternative states the availability more explicitly.

before the cutoff

Implies a precise point where something is no longer valid or possible.

before it's too late

This version emphasizes the negative consequences of missing the opportunity.

before the last opportunity

Highlights that this is a final chance to do something.

before the expiration

More appropriate in contexts involving offers, deals or any service valid during a specific period.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "before it closes" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases such as "prior to closing" or "in advance of closing". These options replace the more casual "before" with more sophisticated alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "before it closes"?

The phrase "before it closes" is suitable when you want to emphasize the limited time available before something, such as a store, an application window, or an opportunity, becomes unavailable. It's best used when clarity and urgency are desired.

What's a more emphatic way to say "before it closes"?

To add more emphasis, you might say "before it's too late" or "before the last opportunity". These alternatives underscore the potential negative consequences of missing the deadline.

Is there a difference between "before it closes" and "before it shuts down"?

While similar, "before it shuts down" often implies a more permanent or significant cessation than "before it closes". "Closes" can refer to a temporary end, like a store closing for the night, while "shuts down" suggests something more final.