closely in line

USAGE SUMMARY

"closely in line" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It generally implies an agreement or similarity between two things, but can also be used in other contexts to mean "very closely." For example: "My opinion on this issue is closely in line with the majority of my peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The amendment also brings Rule 7007.1 more closely in line with Rule 7.1 F. R. Civ.

Cornell University

Yesterday's report brings the two sets of statistics more closely in line with each other.

The New York Times

The results were closely in line with a major exit poll.

The Guardian

But no one has yet come up with a formula to bring its imports more closely in line with exports.

The New York Times

Mrs. Merkel's position seemed to be closely in line with that of Axel A. Weber, president of the German Bundesbank.

The New York Times

This move by the Modi government would bring India more closely in line with international standards for the protection of children's rights.

Harvard University

How does a candidate beat an opponent who, some polls say, holds positions on issues more closely in line with those of most Americans?

The New York Times

The opposition to the measures ranges from 39-42% – closely in line with what the widely criticised exit polling suggested would happen.

The Guardian - Opinion

That has brought the two sides closely in line, but that is, at least in part, because Senate Republicans haven't released a plan of their own.

The Washington Post

The overall results are closely in line with Post-ABC polling since 2009, where between 65 and 75percentt have supported limits on greenhouse gases from power plants.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Barclays Capital said total returns to shareholders could reach £1.2bn: Today's announcement is closely in-line with our expectations and very supportive of our positive view.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "closely in line", ensure that the two elements you are comparing are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "closely in line" when you actually mean "perfectly aligned". The phrase implies a high degree of similarity, but not necessarily a complete match.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closely in line" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the degree of similarity or agreement between two or more things. This is supported by the Ludwig AI, which validates the phrase's proper usage and provides numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

20%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "closely in line" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that signifies a strong similarity or agreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile enough for various contexts, from news reporting and scientific research to business communications. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in defining the elements being compared and be mindful of the nuance that it suggests a high degree of similarity, but not necessarily a complete match. Its prevalence across diverse sources highlights its importance in conveying precise relationships between different subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in close agreement

Focuses on the aspect of agreement, omitting the spatial metaphor.

highly aligned

Emphasizes the alignment aspect more directly, using a simpler structure.

very similar

Highlights the similarity between two things, a more general term.

nearly identical

Implies a higher degree of similarity than "closely in line".

consistent with

Suggests agreement or compatibility, focusing on adherence to something.

in accordance with

Formal alternative suggesting conformity or compliance.

in sync with

Emphasizes synchronization or coordination.

bears resemblance to

Focuses on visual or superficial similarity.

corresponds to

Highlights a direct relationship or matching.

on par with

Highlights equivalence in quality or status.

FAQs

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

You can use "closely in line" to indicate that two things are very similar or in agreement. For example, "The company's profits were closely in line with analysts' expectations."

What can I say instead of "closely in line"?

You can use alternatives like "in close agreement", "highly aligned", or "very similar" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "closely in line" or "close in line"?

"Closely in line" is the correct and more commonly used phrase. "Close in line" is grammatically awkward and less idiomatic.

What is the difference between "closely in line" and "strictly in line"?

"Closely in line" implies a strong similarity or agreement, while "strictly in line" suggests a rigid adherence to a standard or rule.