close game

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close game" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where two opponents or teams in a competition are evenly matched and the outcome is uncertain until the end. Example: "The soccer match between the two rival teams was a close game, with both sides playing fiercely and the score tied until the very last minute."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Close game.

The New York Times

How to win the close game.

The New York Times - Sports

The last shot of a close game?

The New York Times - Sports

First, it'll be a close game.

The New York Times

"That's a close game," Sumlin said.

The New York Times - Sports

You've got to win the close game.

The New York Times - Sports

The Saints will win a close game.

The New York Times - Sports

Griffin won in a close game.

The New York Times - Sports

It would certainly be a close game.

The Guardian - Sport

Why did they abandon the run in a close game?

The New York Times

It means it should be a close game.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "close game" to describe a sporting event or competition where the score difference between competitors is small, and the outcome is uncertain until the end. It accurately conveys the tension and excitement of such a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "close game" to describe any event with a slight difference. Ensure the context genuinely reflects uncertainty and tension until the end, not merely a minor point difference at some stage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close game" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by an adjective, describing the state or quality of a game. The adjective "close" indicates the narrow margin separating competitors. Ludwig confirms this is a common expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close game" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase to describe a sporting event or competition where the outcome is uncertain until the end. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage. When writing, ensure the context genuinely reflects a match characterized by tension and a small score difference. While suitable for most contexts, more formal alternatives exist, such as "closely contested affair" for formal settings. Predominantly found in news and media, "close game" effectively conveys a sense of competitiveness and suspense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Tight match

Focuses on the competitive aspect, emphasizing the balanced skill levels of the opponents.

Neck and neck competition

Emphasizes the closeness of the competition, suggesting frequent lead changes.

Hard fought contest

Highlights the effort and intensity involved in the game or match.

Evenly matched game

Stresses the equality of skill and performance between the competitors.

Competitive encounter

A more formal way of describing a game where both sides are performing strongly.

Intense battle

Highlights the high stakes and fierce competition between the teams.

Nail biting finish

Describes a game where the outcome is uncertain until the very last moment, causing anxiety.

Closely contested affair

Similar to 'competitive encounter', but implies a prolonged period of close competition.

Down to the wire

Indicates that the outcome was not decided until the very end of the game.

Edge of your seat game

Emphasizes the excitement and suspense experienced while watching the game.

FAQs

What does "close game" mean in sports?

In sports, a "close game" signifies a match or competition where the score difference is minimal, leading to uncertainty about the final outcome until the very end.

What are some synonyms for "close game"?

Alternatives include "tight match", "hard fought contest", or "evenly matched game", all suggesting a high degree of competitiveness.

Is it appropriate to use "close game" in formal writing?

Yes, "close game" is generally appropriate for neutral to slightly informal contexts. For very formal writing, consider alternatives like "closely contested affair".

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

Example: "Despite a strong effort, the team lost a "close game" due to a last-minute penalty."