close to a record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close to a record" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing performance, achievements, or measurements that are nearly at the highest level previously recorded. Example: "The athlete finished the race just a few seconds close to a record, showcasing their incredible speed and endurance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

American profit margins are now close to a record.

The Economist

That's certainly high, but not close to a record.

The Guardian - Opinion

He thought it must be close to a record.

The New Yorker

At present, American inventory levels are close to a record high.

The Economist

Residential investment has risen to 6% of GDP, close to a record.

The Economist

This summer it hit 16 feet, close to a record high for August.

The New York Times

Farmers are doing well: this year's harvest is close to a record.

The Economist

While that is low by international standards, it is close to a record high for Japan.

The New York Times

That figure, which represents so-called short sales, is close to a record high.

The New York Times

The number of unsold homes remains close to a record high, and foreclosures continue to proliferate.

The New York Times

And the 30-year mortgage rate is close to a record low.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "close to a record" when you want to convey that something has nearly reached its highest previously documented level, but not quite. This can apply to statistics, achievements, or measurements.

Common error

Avoid using "close to a record" when the actual record has been broken. This phrase indicates proximity, not equivalence. If a new record is established, state that directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close to a record" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is nearing a previously established high or low point. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct. Examples in Ludwig showcase its usage across diverse topics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "close to a record" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe something nearing a previously established high or low point. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as an adjectival phrase, often found in news and business contexts, with a neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure that the actual record has not been broken, and be mindful of the intended nuance. Alternatives include "nearing a record" and "almost at a record", though the choice depends on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Almost at a record

Directly states the nearness to the record, focusing on the 'almost' state.

Nearing a record

Focuses on the action of approaching the record, slightly emphasizing the process rather than the current state.

Approaching a record

Similar to 'nearing', this emphasizes the process of getting closer to the record.

Just shy of a record

Indicates a slight shortfall from reaching the record, emphasizing the narrow margin.

Practically at a record

Similar to 'almost at', this reinforces the idea of being very close to the record in a practical sense.

On the verge of a record

Suggests being very close to achieving or breaking a record, adding a sense of anticipation.

In sight of a record

Implies that the record is visible and within reach, focusing on the clarity of the goal.

Bordering on a record

Implies a state very close to a record, with a slightly more dramatic tone.

Within striking distance of a record

Suggests that the record is easily attainable, emphasizing the ability to achieve it.

A stone's throw from a record

Uses a more figurative expression to indicate being very close to the record.

FAQs

How can I use "close to a record" in a sentence?

You can use "close to a record" to describe something that has almost reached a historical peak. For example, "The company's profits this quarter were "close to a record" high".

What's the difference between "near a record" and "close to a record"?

The phrases "near a record" and "close to a record" are very similar in meaning and can often be used interchangeably. Both phrases indicate that something is approaching or almost at a record level. However, "close to a record" might imply a slightly smaller gap.

What can I say instead of "close to a record"?

Alternatives include "nearing a record", "almost at a record", or "on the verge of a record", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "close to a record low"?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase "close to a record" can be used in conjunction with both 'high' and 'low' to indicate proximity to either extreme of a record value.