close to it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close to it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate proximity or similarity to something previously mentioned. Example: "The answer is not exactly right, but it's close to it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Or close to it.

The New Yorker

Or even close to it.

Independent

"Never saw anything close to it".

The New York Times - Sports

"You're so close to it," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Those close to it remain optimistic.

The Economist

Nothing's close to it.

The Guardian

Nothing gets close to it".

The Guardian - Sport

"I'm very close to it.

The Guardian

Nothing's come close to it.

The Guardian

I'm too close to it.

The Guardian - Music

I feel close to it.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "close to it" to indicate that something is not exact but represents a good approximation. For example, "The estimated cost is $1000, or close to it."

Common error

Avoid using "close to it" when you need to convey precise accuracy. If the situation requires exactness, provide the correct information instead of relying on an approximation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close to it" functions as a prepositional phrase used to express approximation or nearness to a particular state, quantity, or condition. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "close to it" is a versatile expression used to indicate approximation or nearness. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in news and media contexts. It serves the purpose of conveying that something is not exact but is a reasonable estimate or close representation. Alternatives such as "nearly there" or "in the ballpark" can be used for variety, but "close to it" remains a reliable and widely understood choice. It is suitable for use in neutral contexts and contributes to effective communication by acknowledging a degree of uncertainty or approximation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not far from it

A more literal expression of proximity.

nearly there

Focuses on the proximity to a destination or goal.

getting close

Implies an ongoing process of approaching a target.

virtually there

Similar to "nearly there" but can imply a slightly figurative sense of arrival.

almost achieved

Highlights the near completion or accomplishment of something.

in the ballpark

Emphasizes being within an acceptable range or approximation.

on the verge of it

Suggests being at the very edge or point of reaching something.

approaching it

Indicates movement or progress toward a specific target.

akin to it

Suggests a likeness or similarity to something.

in its vicinity

Highlights physical or metaphorical nearness.

FAQs

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

The phrase "close to it" indicates approximation or nearness. For example, "The movie was almost three hours long, or "close to it"" suggests the movie's duration was near three hours.

What can I say instead of "close to it"?

Alternatives include "nearly there", "almost achieved", or "in the ballpark", depending on the context.

Is "close to it" formal or informal?

The phrase "close to it" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal settings might prefer more precise language.

Which is correct, "close to it" or "closed to it"?

"Close to it" indicates proximity or similarity, while "closed to it" means something is inaccessible or unreceptive. For example, a mind can be "closed to" new ideas.