close tailgate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close tailgate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to shut or secure the tailgate of a vehicle, typically a truck or SUV. Example: "After loading the equipment, please make sure to close the tailgate before we hit the road."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Close tailgate.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr. McGown said he first saw Mr. McVeigh in a 1977 Mercury Marquis, then backing up a Ryder truck, and, finally, trying to close its tailgate.

The New York Times

Ditto for a parent who is holding a small child in one hand and trying to close the tailgate with the other.

Forbes

Now go to the back and lift the side rail slightly and close the tailgate.

WikiHow

I miss the satisfying heft of lifting my pallet on the scale to be weighed, of stashing the boxes of fruit in the back of my car and closing the tailgate.

Huffington Post

Also, if third-row seats are positioned too close to the tailgate, they are, in effect, part of the crumple zone and their occupants will be threatened in a high-speed rear ender, so Volvo puts its third row on line with the rear axle, providing both side- and rear-impact structural protection.

Forbes

Trucks in convoys, however, tailgate closer than commercial vehicles usually would.

The New York Times

Other useful features include power windows and mirrors, a thicker steering wheel that is easier to grip, keyless entry, an automatic tailgate closer and a push-button to start (and stop) the engine.

The New York Times - Health

The compartment closest to the tailgate has cushioned hinges.

Forbes

Other grain trucks feature hydraulic-operated tailgates, an option that works well for individuals who are concerned about their ability to open, close, or otherwise adjust stubborn tailgates.

WikiHow

Unfortunately, Nissan's heavy tailgate is hard to close.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions, be specific about the method of closing the tailgate, such as "close tailgate gently" or "close tailgate firmly" depending on the context.

Common error

Ensure clarity by specifying which tailgate you are referring to if multiple vehicles are involved. For example, "close the blue truck's tailgate" avoids confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close tailgate" functions primarily as a command or instruction, directing someone to perform the action of shutting the tailgate. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English, providing additional context.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close tailgate" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that primarily functions as an instruction or command to shut the tailgate of a vehicle. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. The phrase is most commonly found in Wiki and News & Media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various situations. While "close tailgate" is valid, alternatives like "shut the tailgate" or "secure the tailgate" can offer more specific connotations. When using the phrase, clarity is key, especially when multiple vehicles are involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shut the tailgate

Uses a different verb with a similar meaning.

secure the tailgate

Focuses on ensuring the tailgate is firmly closed.

latch the tailgate

Emphasizes the act of fastening the tailgate.

fasten the tailgate

Highlights securing the tailgate in place.

slam the tailgate shut

Adds emphasis to the closing action.

lower and secure the tailgate

Specifies lowering before securing.

close the truck bed

Refers to the action of closing the area the tailgate protects.

secure the rear door of the truck

Uses a more descriptive phrase

seal the truck bed

Emphasizes making the truck bed airtight.

shut the rear of the vehicle

Generalizes the action to any vehicle.

FAQs

What is another way to say "close tailgate"?

You can use alternatives like "shut the tailgate", "secure the tailgate", or "latch the tailgate" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "close tailgate" or "shut tailgate"?

Both "close tailgate" and "shut tailgate" are acceptable. The choice depends on personal preference, as they convey essentially the same meaning.

How do you properly "close tailgate" on a truck?

The proper way to "close tailgate" depends on the truck model. Generally, lift the tailgate, align it with the truck bed, and ensure the latches engage securely.

What is a potential issue with failing to "close tailgate"?

Failing to "close tailgate" properly can result in items falling out of the truck bed, damage to the tailgate itself, or creating a hazard for other drivers.