close followers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close followers" can be used in written English.
It is often used to refer to people who are closely following or observing someone or something. For example, "The popularity of the band has amassed a large group of close followers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The sabbatical, as close followers of fashion will remember, followed the 1999 acquisition, by the Prada Group, of 75percentt of Jil Sander A.G., a company that Sander founded in Hamburg, Germany, in 1973, when she was in her early 20's and still known as Heidemarie Jiline Sander, and that she built into a $200 million empire.

The New York Times - Style

Close followers of her program saw something more gradual.

The Washington Post

Close followers of the company think the answer may be yes.

The New York Times

Even close followers of Vatican decision-making expressed astonishment at the pope's announcement.

The New York Times

Only three did; close followers betrayed him.But Mr Turabi is left free to speak, even to foreign reporters.

The Economist

According to close followers, the six-day rider ranks higher than the prize fighter in intelligence and education.

The New Yorker

Now, the rabbi's close followers are disclosing what they say is the source of many of his troubles.

The New York Times

All of which has come as something of a surprise to many close followers of his career.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

But there is a jarring detail for any close follower of the Kelly saga.

The Guardian

He did not appear to be a close follower of politics.

The Washington Post

One close follower of the coverage was Steve Newhouse, chairman of Advance.net, the corporate digital arm of Advance Publications.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close followers", ensure the context clearly indicates what the followers are closely observing or supporting. For example, specify "close followers of the band" or "close followers of the political movement".

Common error

Avoid using "close followers" without specifying what the group is following. Vague references can confuse the reader. Always provide context to clarify the object of their attention or loyalty.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "close followers" is as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It refers to a group of people characterized by their attentiveness and dedication. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

8%

Academia

3%

Less common in

Forbes

3%

Vice

1%

Johns Hopkins University

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "close followers" is a commonly used noun phrase that identifies individuals deeply engaged with or observant of a specific person, group, or subject. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct and prevalent, particularly in news and media contexts. The phrase serves to distinguish dedicated individuals from casual observers, and its neutral register makes it suitable for various informational settings. When using "close followers", clarity is key; always specify what the group is closely following to avoid ambiguity. Considering similar alternatives like "devoted adherents" or "dedicated supporters" can enhance precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

devoted adherents

Emphasizes loyalty and dedication more strongly than "close followers".

dedicated supporters

Focuses on active support rather than passive observation.

ardent devotees

Similar to 'devoted adherents' but with a stronger emphasis on passionate commitment.

staunch advocates

Highlights active promotion and defense of a cause or person.

committed allies

Focuses on a bond based on shared goals and active cooperation.

zealous proponents

Highlights fervent advocacy and strong belief in a cause or person.

loyal disciples

Implies a student-teacher or mentor-mentee relationship with strong adherence to doctrines.

avid enthusiasts

Suggests passionate interest and excitement.

core group

Describes a central and essential cluster of people.

inner circle

Refers to a small, exclusive group of confidants and advisors.

FAQs

How to use "close followers" in a sentence?

"Close followers" typically refers to people who are deeply engaged with or observant of a particular person, group, or subject. For example, "The company's decisions were closely scrutinized by its "close followers"".

What can I say instead of "close followers"?

You can use alternatives like "devoted adherents", "dedicated supporters", or "staunch advocates" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "close followers" or "closest followers"?

Both "close followers" and "closest followers" are grammatically correct, but "close followers" is more common. "Closest followers" implies an even greater degree of intimacy or scrutiny.

What's the difference between "close followers" and "casual observers"?

"Close followers" are deeply engaged and attentive, while "casual observers" have only a passing interest and limited knowledge.