close game with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close game with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a competitive match or contest where the scores are very close, indicating that either team could win. Example: "The championship was a close game with both teams scoring nearly the same points throughout the match."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Mariota, a freshman, won his first close game with 400 total yards.

The New York Times - Sports

In support of this, Lancaster pointed to last weekend's close game with South Africa.

Independent

It was a close game, with a lot of intensity on the court.

The New Yorker

This looks like a close game, with the Bills on top.

The New York Times - Sports

The Capitals ended the close game with three goals within 1 minute 53 seconds late in the second period.

The Washington Post

But this was a close game, with the score tied into the third period until another memorable moment changed everything.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

But they nearly always close games with Harden on the court.

The New York Times - Sports

"We had a number of close games with top teams," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

To state the obvious, that also means they were close games, with only one goal deciding each.

The Guardian - Sport

"We've always had close games with the Mets," shortstop Derek Jeter said yesterday, after the Yankees' home game with Tampa Bay was rained out.

The New York Times - Sports

That was especially true after the way St. John's came out on the losing end of close games with Ohio State and Syracuse.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close game with", ensure the context clearly indicates a competitive situation where the outcome is uncertain. This phrase is effective for highlighting the tension and excitement of a closely matched contest.

Common error

Avoid using "close game with" to describe situations that are not genuinely competitive or where the outcome is predetermined. This phrase implies a level of uncertainty and excitement that would be inappropriate in non-competitive contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close game with" primarily functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a noun to indicate a competitive sports event or contest. Ludwig shows that it's commonly used to set the scene or provide context about the nature of the game.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close game with" is a commonly used phrase to describe competitive scenarios where the outcome is uncertain. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse sources, particularly in news and sports reporting. When using this phrase, ensure the context reflects a genuinely competitive situation. Alternatives like "tight match against" or "narrow contest with" may offer subtle variations in emphasis. It's a versatile phrase appropriate for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tight match against

Emphasizes the intensity and competitiveness of the game.

narrow contest with

Highlights the small margin separating the competitors.

competitive game against

Focuses on the high level of competition involved.

closely contested game with

Stresses the evenness and back-and-forth nature of the competition.

evenly matched game against

Indicates that the teams or players are of similar skill level.

hard-fought game with

Highlights the effort and determination displayed by the participants.

neck-and-neck game against

Implies that the competitors are very close throughout the duration.

tightly contested match with

Similar to "closely contested game", but uses 'match' instead of 'game'.

intense game against

Focuses on the high level of excitement and pressure.

nail-biting game with

Emphasizes the suspense and anxiety associated with the game.

FAQs

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

You can use "close game with" to describe a competitive situation: "The final was a "close game with" both teams scoring nearly the same points throughout the match."

What are some alternatives to "close game with"?

You can use alternatives like "tight match against", "narrow contest with", or "competitive game against" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "close game with" or "close game against"?

"Close game with" and "close game against" are both acceptable, but "close game against" is generally preferred when specifying an opponent. "Close game with" often implies shared participation or elements within the game itself.

What does "close game with" imply about the teams involved?

The phrase ""close game with"" typically suggests that the teams or individuals involved are relatively evenly matched, leading to a competitive and suspenseful contest.