close to collapsing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close to collapsing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, structure, or system that is on the verge of failure or breakdown. Example: "The old bridge is close to collapsing, and it needs urgent repairs to ensure safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"We're close to collapsing if this situation continues.

The Guardian

The deal gives EM.TV breathing room after coming close to collapsing.

The New York Times

That was in 1998, when Long-Term Capital, a hedge fund, came close to collapsing.

The New York Times

For the past week, the Dutch coalition has been close to collapsing over the treatment of asylum-seekers but not those trying to cross the Mediterrasylum-seekers but

The Economist

The deal gives EM.TV at least a measure of breathing room after coming perilously close to collapsing under a mountain of debt.

The New York Times

The suspected conspiracy came close to collapsing in December 1994, when Mr. Trofimoff and his friend were arrested in Germany on espionage charges.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"It's close to collapse.

The Guardian - Business

Meanwhile, the economy came close to collapse.

The New Yorker

"The house is now close to collapse.

The New York Times

"I was close to collapse.

The New Yorker

He was close to collapse.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation as "close to collapsing", provide specific details about the factors contributing to this state. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "close to collapsing" in situations that are merely challenging but not genuinely on the verge of failure. Overusing the phrase diminishes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close to collapsing" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that it is in a state of near failure or breakdown. This is supported by Ludwig examples, showcasing its use in various contexts such as describing physical structures, organizations, or abstract systems.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close to collapsing" is a commonly used and grammatically correct adjective phrase that describes a state of near failure. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is frequently used in news and media to convey urgency and risk, also suitable for formal writing and analytical contexts. When using "close to collapsing", ensure it's appropriate for the degree of risk involved and supported by specific details. Some alternatives, like "on the verge of collapse", offer similar meanings with slightly different levels of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge of collapse

Emphasizes the imminence of failure; more formal.

on the brink of failure

Highlights the precarious position before a negative outcome.

nearing its end

Suggests a process reaching its termination point.

about to crash

Often used for systems or structures.

nearly falling apart

Emphasizes physical disintegration or organizational disarray.

on its last legs

An idiomatic expression signifying the final stages of functionality.

ready to give way

Implies structural weakness and imminent failure.

approaching breakdown

Focuses on the process leading to a non-functional state.

bordering on disintegration

Highlights a state of decay and fragmentation.

close to disintegration

Highlights a state of decay and fragmentation.

FAQs

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

You can use "close to collapsing" to describe anything that is on the verge of failing or breaking down. For example: "The old bridge is "close to collapsing" due to corrosion" or "The company is "close to collapsing" under the weight of its debt".

What are some alternatives to "close to collapsing"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "on the verge of collapse", "on the brink of failure", or "nearly falling apart". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "close to collapsing" in formal writing?

Yes, "close to collapsing" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in news reports or analytical articles. However, consider using a more formal alternative like "on the verge of collapse" for very formal academic papers.

What's the difference between "close to collapsing" and "about to collapse"?

"Close to collapsing" suggests a state of being near failure, while "about to collapse" implies that the failure is imminent. The subtle difference lies in the timing; "about to collapse" indicates a more immediate timeframe.