close to each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'close to each other' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to two or more people (or things) that are near each other in physical proximity. For example, "The two friends stood close to each other, enjoying each other's company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They sit very close to each other.

Independent

They hang uncomfortably close to each other.

Independent

We're very close to each other.

The New Yorker

"But waiting close to each other".

The New York Times

"They're real close to each other.

The New York Times - Sports

But they're so close to each other.

The New York Times

All identified wells are located relatively close to each other.

Journal of Hydrology

In many experiments twin cracks initiated close to each other.

Corrosion Science

Three of these are reasonably close to each other.

Harvard University

"We all end up quite close to each other.

The Guardian - Sport

We lived in apartment houses very close to each other.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing relationships, be specific about the context: is it physical proximity, emotional closeness, or conceptual similarity? Tailor your language to accurately convey the intended meaning.

Common error

In formal contexts, avoid overusing "close to each other". Opt for more precise language like "adjacent", "proximate", or specific relational terms to enhance clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close to each other" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase describing the spatial, relational, or conceptual proximity between two or more entities. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its common usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

40%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "close to each other" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to describe proximity, connection, or similarity between entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sees widespread use across diverse contexts, including news, science, and personal narratives. While appropriate in many situations, consider using more precise alternatives in formal writing to enhance clarity. Its widespread use and diverse application make it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

near each other

Simple substitution of "close" with "near", indicating physical proximity.

in close proximity

Replaces the original phrase with a more formal expression of nearness.

closely connected

Shifts the focus to a relational connection rather than physical distance.

situated nearby

Highlights location and nearness in terms of geographical placement.

adjacent to one another

Indicates that items are next to each other, sharing a boundary.

in immediate vicinity

Highlights location in a very close surrounding area.

intimately linked

Emphasizes a deep and inseparable relationship.

in a tight cluster

Suggests that multiple items are packed very closely together.

within arm's reach

Provides a tangible measure of proximity.

shoulder to shoulder

Expresses togetherness and physical closeness, often in a collaborative or confrontational context.

FAQs

How can I use "close to each other" in a sentence?

You can use "close to each other" to describe physical proximity (e.g., "The houses were built close to each other"), emotional connection (e.g., "The siblings are very close to each other"), or similarity (e.g., "The two concepts are close to each other in meaning").

What are some alternatives to "close to each other"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "near each other" for physical proximity, "closely connected" for relationships, or "similar" for resemblance.

Is it grammatically correct to say "close to one another" instead of "close to each other"?

Yes, "close to one another" is grammatically correct and virtually interchangeable with "close to each other". The choice often depends on personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What's the difference between "close to each other" and "attentive to each other"?

"Close to each other" describes proximity or connection, while "attentive to each other" describes a state of paying careful attention to someone or something. They address different aspects of interaction and relationship.