close streets

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close streets" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of shutting down or restricting access to certain streets, often for events or construction. Example: "Due to the parade, we will need to close streets in the downtown area from 10 AM to 2 PM."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Close streets.

The New York Times

"People don't say, 'We don't want the Republican convention here' or 'don't close streets,"' she said.

The New York Times

It would have the right of condemnation and could close streets or highways in pursuit of its needs.

The New York Times

Nor had the council yet received any applications to close streets for celebrations in Nottingham, Justine's home town and the nearest city to the ceremony.

Independent

If only our nation's capital would reduce on-street parking, close streets to vehicles and otherwise create disincentives for car use and ownership.

The New York Times

He proudly recalled that the village went out of its way to close streets and accommodate the making of "Trees Lounge".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Closing streets to cars cuts traffic, as Times Square has proved.

The New York Times - Arts

Hundreds of angry bakers protesting in Cairo have already closed streets downtown.

The New York Times

Protesters in Boston, Atlanta and Chicago closed streets and in Philadelphia about 100 were arrested.

The Guardian

If you drive into the city, prepare for heavy traffic including in Manhattan, where the United Nations General Assembly is still closing streets.

The New York Times

Internecine political movements broke out frequently, closing streets and businesses for weeks.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about planned events, specify the exact times and dates when the authorities will "close streets". This helps readers understand the duration of the disruption.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly stating who is "closing streets" and for what reason. Lack of clarity can lead to confusion or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close streets" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action taken to restrict access to roadways. This action is often performed by authorities for various reasons, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "close streets" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of restricting access to roadways. As Ludwig highlights, this action is typically taken by authorities for reasons ranging from public safety and events to construction and emergencies. The phrase is most frequently encountered in news reports and other forms of media, presented in a neutral register. Alternative phrases, such as ""block off roads"" or ""restrict access to streets"", can be used to add variety to writing, but the core meaning remains consistent. The examples confirm the phrase's widespread use and acceptability in describing planned or ongoing traffic restrictions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implement road closures

Focuses on the act of putting closures into effect.

block off roads

Emphasizes the physical obstruction aspect.

shut down thoroughfares

A more formal way to indicate the temporary closure of main roads.

restrict access to streets

Focuses on limiting entry rather than complete closure.

bar passage on roads

Highlights the prevention of movement along roadways.

make streets inaccessible

Describes the resulting state of the streets.

prohibit street traffic

Emphasizes the legal restriction of vehicle movement.

divert road traffic

Focuses on rerouting vehicles rather than complete closure.

impede street access

Suggests hindering access without necessarily completely blocking it.

create pedestrian zones

Indicates turning a street into a zone exclusively for pedestrians.

FAQs

What does it mean to "close streets"?

To "close streets" means to temporarily block or restrict access to roads, typically for events, construction, or emergencies. This prevents vehicles from using those roads.

What are some reasons why cities might "close streets"?

Cities might "close streets" for parades, festivals, construction projects, film shoots, protests, or in response to emergencies like floods or accidents. The goal is often to ensure public safety or facilitate specific activities.

Are there alternatives to "close streets"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "block off roads", "restrict access to streets", or "implement road closures" depending on the specific context.

Who has the authority to "close streets"?

Typically, local authorities such as the police department, transportation department, or city council have the authority to "close streets". They usually require permits and coordination with various city agencies.