closely knit

USAGE SUMMARY

"closely knit" is an acceptable phrase to use in written English.
You can use it to describe a group of people or things that are closely related or connected. For example, you could say "The members of this family have always had a closely knit relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

With the game fast coming to a close The Tars formed a closely knit ball with the halfback in center".

Wikipedia

"And it's nice to be in a closely knit community".

The New York Times

Social, intellectual and administrative elites were closely knit.

The New York Times

The community survived because they were closely knit.

The Guardian

I see four people, tanned, even more closely knit.

The New Yorker

One cannot turn such a body into the small, closely knit organisation required for sabotage.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Now the story looks set to become the closely-knit island's first human rights case.

The Guardian

This project addresses mobile communication and awareness of people in a closely-knit group.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

However, don't expect to easily join this closely-knit circle.

Forbes

"I think they are playing as a team and Daryl has made them a really closely-knit bunch," he said.

BBC

"The Chechen community here is so closely-knit and decent.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing groups, use "closely knit" to convey a sense of unity, strong bonds, and mutual support among members. It is particularly effective when highlighting the positive aspects of close relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "closely knit" in contexts where the close relationship might be perceived negatively, such as in situations involving a lack of diversity or resistance to outside influence. Consider alternatives that emphasize connection without implying exclusion or insularity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closely knit" primarily functions as a compound adjective. It modifies a noun, describing a group or entity characterized by strong connections and interdependence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is perfectly acceptable in the English language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "closely knit" is a frequently used and grammatically correct compound adjective that describes groups with strong bonds and mutual support. Ludwig AI validates its acceptability in English. It’s appropriate for diverse contexts, ranging from News & Media to Science, with a neutral register. When using this phrase, consider the potential for misinterpretation; avoid using it in scenarios where the close relationship might imply exclusion. Alternatives include "closely connected", "tightly bound", and "strongly united", each providing subtle nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely connected

Focuses on the aspect of being linked or joined together.

tightly bound

Emphasizes the strength and security of the connection.

intimately linked

Highlights the deep and personal nature of the connection.

strongly united

Underscores the sense of togetherness and common purpose.

closely related

Indicates a shared origin or characteristic.

well-integrated

Focuses on the harmonious blending of elements within a system.

cohesive

Highlights the property of sticking together tightly.

interwoven

Emphasizes the complex and inseparable nature of the connection.

unified

Stresses the state of being one and undivided.

inseparable

Focuses on the inability to be divided or separated.

FAQs

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

You can use "closely knit" to describe groups or communities characterized by strong relationships and mutual support. For example: "The town is known for its "closely knit" community" or "They have a "closely knit" family".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "closely knit"?

Alternatives to "closely knit" include "closely connected", "tightly bound", "strongly united", or "cohesive". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "closely knit" formal or informal?

"Closely knit" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. Its widespread use in news articles, academic papers, and casual conversation demonstrates its versatility.

What does it mean for a community to be "closely knit"?

A "closely knit" community is one where members have strong relationships, know and support each other, and often share common values or goals. This can lead to a strong sense of belonging and mutual assistance.