close colleagues

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close colleagues" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to people with whom you have a close working relationship. For example, "My close colleagues at the office always help me with my projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The two generals were close colleagues before the coup.

The Guardian

Close colleagues may want your job, and relationships with them may distract you.

The Economist

The second infection came in one of the victim's close colleagues.

The Economist

We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family, close colleagues and patients.

The New York Times

But in the early 1970s, their paths crossed, and they soon became close colleagues and friends.

The New York Times - Books

Once close colleagues, Mr Rudd and his former deputy had become sworn political foes.

Independent

Many of his close colleagues haven't seen him for years, except at occasional conferences via Skype.

The New Yorker

But they will be close colleagues as fellow members of the RTL Group management committee.

The Guardian

The scandal of Marston's family arrangements, which, inevitably, became known to his close colleagues, cost him his academic career.

The New Yorker

With friends and close colleagues, she still talks passionately about how she believes the Republican Party is harming the country.

The New York Times

That said everything about just how far apart Torre and Cashman, former close colleagues and friends, had grown.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about team dynamics, use "close colleagues" to specifically highlight individuals with whom a strong, positive working relationship exists.

Common error

While acceptable, overusing "close colleagues" in formal reports or business communications may sound repetitive. Vary your language with terms like "esteemed peers" or "valued collaborators" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close colleagues" functions as a descriptive term, typically serving as a noun adjunct to modify a noun or pronoun referring to individuals with whom one shares a professional connection. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close colleagues" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe individuals with whom one shares a strong, positive working relationship. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business contexts, it conveys a sense of trust, respect, and collaboration. While versatile, it's beneficial to consider context-specific alternatives like "esteemed peers" or "valued collaborators" for added nuance or formality. Remember to use the phrase to accurately reflect the dynamics of your team and working environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closest colleagues

Highlights the degree of closeness within a group of coworkers.

near colleagues

Emphasizes physical or metaphorical proximity in the workplace.

valued collaborators

Emphasizes the collaborative aspect and the worth of the colleagues.

trusted coworkers

Focuses on the element of trust in the working relationship.

workplace allies

Highlights the support and mutual benefit derived from the relationship.

intimate associates

Stresses a personal connection within a professional setting.

professional confidants

Focuses on the element of trust and sharing of sensitive information.

esteemed peers

Highlights the respect and admiration among colleagues.

longtime associates

Highlights the duration of the professional relationship.

inner circle

Implies a select group of closely connected individuals within an organization.

FAQs

How can I use "close colleagues" in a sentence?

You can use "close colleagues" to describe people you work with who you have a good relationship with. For example, "My "close colleagues" and I often collaborate on important projects".

What is the difference between "close colleagues" and "coworkers"?

"Coworkers" is a general term for people you work with, while ""close colleagues"" suggests a stronger bond and more positive relationship.

What can I say instead of "close colleagues"?

Alternatives include "trusted coworkers", "valued collaborators", or "esteemed peers", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "close colleagues" in a formal setting?

Yes, ""close colleagues"" is generally appropriate in formal settings, but consider using more sophisticated terms like "esteemed peers" or "valued collaborators" if you want to convey a more elevated tone.