close on something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close on something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to approaching a particular topic, detail, or aspect in a discussion or analysis. Example: "As we close on the budget proposal, let's ensure all figures are accurate and accounted for."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Thank them sincerely for the offer, time, consideration, and close on something positive.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Hold on, I'm closing on something the size of an inferior country's G.D.P., and the S.E.C.'s been on my ass like John Wayne on a stallion.... Stacy, be a doll and clear my evening and order up a couple pounds of steak, 'cause Daddy's gonna be taking care of business and working overtime.

The New Yorker

What Musica Sacra provided was a comfortable holiday tradition; Trinity put on something closer to a sacred rite.

The New York Times - Arts

Farm Aid — which came to Randalls Island on Sunday, and to New York City for the first time ever in its 22 years — is principally Mr. Nelson's baby, and he used his closing set to put on something different and possibly less desirable than his usual show.

The New York Times - Arts

It's not a conscious choice, but maybe I just feel a stronger connection to those stories, because I can relate to them in a certain way," says Marie. "My photos always draw on something that's close to my heart, but I've also learnt that I tend to photograph women who want to tell their stories in order to make a difference.

Vice

If there's time, try and get a good angle, one that gives the viewer "a close focus on something, but a broader view of what's going on," as Stanley put it.

Vice

Now he is keeping close watch on something else: his phone bill.

The New York Times

We could have coasted on that momentum but Andy and I were closing in on something new and different.

The Guardian - Music

Now, they are closing in on something that seemed impossible when they were 13 1/2 games behind on Aug. 18.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a slight piece, but it closes in on something real and lights it up unexpectedly.

The Guardian - Books

"We're closing in on something that we haven't really had good answers for yet," Smith says.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close on something" to indicate progress, ensure the context clearly establishes what is being approached or finalized. Clarity is key, given the phrase's relative infrequency.

Common error

Avoid using "close on something" when a more direct verb like "finalize", "complete", or "conclude" would provide greater clarity and impact. Overusing this phrase can dilute the message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close on something" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of approaching completion or finalization of a particular matter. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable, although not particularly common.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "close on something" is a grammatically sound but relatively uncommon expression used to indicate approaching the completion or finalization of a process. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable, though more direct alternatives may often be preferable. Its usage spans diverse contexts, from informal communication to news reporting, but is most frequently found in news and media. The phrase's nuance lies in conveying progress, and writers should ensure clarity to avoid ambiguity. Given its infrequency, carefully select alternative expressions for a broader audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conclude something

This suggests bringing something to an end or finalizing it.

finalize something

Implies completing the last steps to make something official.

settle something

This indicates resolving or deciding on something.

wrap up something

Suggests finishing or bringing something to a conclusion.

complete something

This indicates finishing a task or project.

finish something

Implies bringing something to an end.

reach a conclusion on something

Suggests arriving at a decision after considering different options.

agree on something

This refers to reaching a mutual understanding or decision.

decide on something

Implies making a choice or determination.

settle upon something

Suggests choosing something after deliberation.

FAQs

How can I use "close on something" in a sentence?

You can use "close on something" when you want to express the idea of approaching the end of a task, deal, or negotiation. For example: "We are beginning to "close on something" substantial with this client."

What are some alternatives to "close on something"?

Alternatives include "finalize something", "conclude something", or "complete something". The best choice depends on the specific context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "close on something"?

The phrase "close on something" is appropriate in contexts where you want to convey the idea of nearing completion or finalization of a process. It is often used in business or negotiation scenarios.

Is "close on something" formal or informal?

The phrase is relatively neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more direct alternatives might be preferable in highly formal settings.