close reach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close reach" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in nautical contexts to describe a sailing course that is nearly into the wind but still allows for some forward movement. Example: "The captain decided to take a close reach to navigate around the rocky outcrop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Take care to hold Snowe close; reach out to Collins.

The New Yorker

Hand mirrors within close reach make it easy to experiment.

The New York Times

"His stubby fingers are currently within horrifyingly close reach of [the US's] nuclear codes.

The Guardian - Books

That would have put him within close reach of 42%, O'Donnell's million-dollar result in Delaware.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a weird turn of events in an age that keeps valuable cultural artifacts at close reach.

The New York Times - Arts

The level of tournament-ready courses elsewhere, even within close reach of Brazil, means the Olympics could move this sport with minimal disruption.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

(It came close, reaching $14.99 a share on Jan . 6.

The New York Times

Also, whenever you go pick up something or try to put it down, you look very close reaching [INAUDIBLE].

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Flying Eagles have come close, reaching the final twice, but the trophy has been elusive.

BBC

She came in close, reaching out her arms to hold mosque members as they cried.

Forbes

The visitors survived to the close, reaching 20-0 in six overs before bad light intervened.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close reach" in nautical contexts, ensure it accurately describes the sailing angle relative to the wind. If you are referring to something easily accessible, consider alternatives like "within reach" or "at hand".

Common error

Avoid using "close reach" in non-nautical contexts where a more general term like "within reach" would be more appropriate. Using the term incorrectly can confuse readers unfamiliar with sailing terminology.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close reach" functions primarily as a noun phrase in nautical contexts, referring to a specific sailing maneuver. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in sentences relating to sailing and accessibility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

31%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close reach" is a phrase with a specific nautical meaning and a broader sense of accessibility. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While primarily a nautical term describing a sailing angle, it can also metaphorically indicate something easily accessible. When writing, consider the context to avoid misinterpretations, and be mindful that synonyms like "within reach" or "at hand" may be more appropriate in non-nautical contexts. Remember that understanding the specific meaning of "close reach" ensures effective communication and avoids confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within reach

A more general term indicating accessibility, whether physical or metaphorical.

nearby

A simpler, more general term for physical nearness.

within proximity

Emphasizes the state of being near in space or time.

at hand

Implies that something is easily accessible or within immediate reach.

within easy access

Focuses on the ease of getting to or using something, rather than literal physical nearness.

within striking distance

Conveys being near a goal or target, often used metaphorically.

readily available

Highlights the availability of something, shifting the focus from distance to accessibility.

at close quarters

Implies being in a confined space or very near to something else.

under one's nose

Suggests something obvious or easily found, despite potentially being overlooked.

a beam reach

Specifically refers to a sailing term where the wind is perpendicular to the boat's direction.

FAQs

How is "close reach" used in sailing?

In sailing, "close reach" describes a point of sail where the boat is sailing at an angle between close-hauled (sailing as directly into the wind as possible) and a beam reach (sailing with the wind coming from the side).

What does it mean when something is within "close reach"?

When something is described as within "close reach", it means it is easily accessible or obtainable. Similar alternatives include "within reach" or "easily accessible".

Can I use "close reach" metaphorically?

While primarily a nautical term, "close reach" can be used metaphorically to suggest being on the verge of achieving something. However, ensure the context makes the intended meaning clear.

What are some synonyms for "close reach" in a general context?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "close reach" include "nearby", "at hand", or "within proximity". These options may be more suitable for non-nautical contexts.