closely enough

USAGE SUMMARY

"closely enough" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You may use this phrase when you want to convey that something is accurate but not exact. For example: "The measurements were taken closely enough to get an accurate result."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

If you look closely enough, some emerge.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm not sure they're looking closely enough".

The New York Times - Science

Some lenders did not look closely enough at their borrowers.

The Economist

For not going through the expense form closely enough".

The New Yorker

"I don't think they're looking closely enough at the movie".

The New York Times

What human being isn't, if you look closely enough?

The New York Times

Triggers are everywhere if you look closely enough.

The Guardian

But meaningful, too, if you look closely enough.

The Guardian - Books

But perhaps you were not listening closely enough.

The Guardian

Our game is everywhere if you look closely enough.

The Guardian - Sport

"If anybody had that response, I don't think they're looking closely enough at the movie".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "closely enough" to indicate a degree of approximation or accuracy that is adequate for a particular purpose, rather than absolute precision.

Common error

Avoid using "closely enough" when the situation requires absolute accuracy. In contexts where precision is paramount, consider using terms like "exactly" or "precisely".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closely enough" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, indicating the degree to which an action is performed. As Ludwig AI highlights, it suggests a level of attention or proximity that is adequate but not necessarily absolute. Examples from Ludwig show it modifying verbs like "look", "listen", "watch", and "scrutinize".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "closely enough" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to indicate that an action is performed with sufficient precision or attention for a given purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness across various contexts. While versatile, it's important to ensure it aligns with the intended level of precision, avoiding its use when absolute accuracy is required. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, the phrase frequently appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, reflecting its widespread acceptance in both formal and informal writing. Related alternatives include "sufficiently close" and "near enough", offering nuanced ways to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sufficiently close

Replaces "enough" with "sufficiently", emphasizing adequacy.

near enough

Uses "near" to highlight physical or metaphorical closeness.

in sufficient proximity

More formal way of expressing nearness.

closely observed

Highlights the act of observation with considerable care.

with adequate attention

Shifts the focus to the level of attention given.

intimately acquainted

Focuses on a deep level of familiarity rather than just proximity.

examined thoroughly

Emphasizes a comprehensive and detailed examination.

studied intently

Focuses on intense and careful study.

sufficiently detailed

Emphasizes thoroughness in examination or analysis.

meticulously inspected

Highlights the precision and detail in the inspection process.

FAQs

How can I use "closely enough" in a sentence?

You can use "closely enough" to describe an action done with sufficient accuracy or attention for a specific purpose. For example, "The measurements were taken "closely enough" to provide a reliable estimate".

What are some alternatives to "closely enough"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "sufficiently close", "near enough", or "in sufficient proximity".

Is it better to say "closely enough" or "close enough"?

"Closely enough" typically refers to the manner in which something is observed or examined, while "close enough" more generally indicates sufficient proximity or similarity. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

In what situations is "closely enough" most appropriate?

"Closely enough" is suitable when describing the degree of attention, scrutiny, or proximity needed to achieve a specific outcome or understanding. For example, "The inspector examined the documents "closely enough" to identify discrepancies".