closeness

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'closeness' is correct and can be used in written English.
'Closeness' can be used to refer to the feelings of intimacy that exist between two people. For example, "I could feel the closeness between the two of them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a writer, you can really take advantage of the audience's closeness.

The Guardian

Ruth Fox, director of the Hansard Society, said turnout looks set to echo 2010, despite the closeness of many constituency contests which might have encouraged more votes.

The Guardian

"The coalition's reluctance to intervene or regulate, whether prompted by ideology, its closeness to corporate interests in the food and alcohol sectors or fears of being accused of 'nanny state tactics' by some elements of the media, has been a huge setback for the health of the public," the letter says.

The Guardian

Another source said that Murdoch has been a regular visitor to Ivens's office during recent visits to London – confirming the closeness of their relationship.

The Guardian

But more than anything, when I listen to that album now, I am struck by its closeness – it is music that presses up against you, that fills the room and carries under doors, through windows, across balconies from dusty apartment to dusty apartment.

The Guardian - Music

Because you know… the closeness of the result.

The Guardian

Government is the arms industry's biggest customer and the MoD's closeness to its suppliers is widely known.

The Guardian

And once again I felt that closeness, the colours of those songs, the smells of that city, the sound of music and warm rain falling on rooftops, carrying under doors, through windows, from balcony to balcony.

The Guardian - Music

"Despite the closeness of the count I have decided not to seek a recount.

The Guardian

Welfare changes have increased the suicide rate and the government's closeness to food and alcohol producers has prevented tough action being taken, they claim.

The Guardian

Bowen has produced a mapping of the adaptations – and maladaptations – that various forms of institutional Islam have made to British society, and their continuing closeness to the societies and histories from which the original immigrants came.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing relationships, use "closeness" to convey a sense of intimacy and emotional connection. For example, "The therapist helped them rebuild their closeness."

Common error

Avoid using "closeness" vaguely. Specify the type of closeness you're referring to, such as emotional, physical, or professional, to provide clarity and prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The word "closeness" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a state or quality. It can describe physical proximity or emotional intimacy. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is correct and used in written English. Examples show it describing relationships and connections.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "closeness" functions as a noun to describe physical proximity or emotional connection. It is grammatically correct, as affirmed by Ludwig AI, and very common in written English, particularly in news and media and formal business contexts. When using "closeness", consider specifying the type of closeness to avoid vagueness. Related terms include "nearness", "intimacy", and "proximity", each offering a slightly different shade of meaning. Overall, "closeness" is a versatile and widely understood term, making it valuable for expressing various relationships and states of connection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Closeness in spirit

Specifically describes a shared mental or emotional state.

Nearness

Focuses on the physical proximity or reduced distance.

Intimacy

Emphasizes emotional or personal connection.

Proximity

Highlights the state of being near in space or time.

Rapport

Highlights the harmonious relationship and mutual understanding.

Affinity

Describes a natural liking or sympathy for someone or something.

Togetherness

Highlights the feeling of unity and shared experience.

Connection

Focuses on the link or relationship between people or things.

Friendship

Emphasizes the bond of mutual affection and companionship.

Familiarity

Focuses on the state of being well-known or easily recognized.

FAQs

How can I use "closeness" in a sentence?

You can use "closeness" to describe a physical proximity, as in, "The "closeness of the buildings" made the street dark" or to describe an emotional bond, as in, "They shared a special "feeling of closeness"".

What are some synonyms for "closeness"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "closeness" include "nearness", "intimacy", "proximity", or "rapport".

When is it appropriate to use "closeness" in writing?

"Closeness" is appropriate when you want to emphasize a sense of connection, either physical or emotional. Be sure to provide context to clarify the type of closeness you are referring to. For example, are you discussing the "closeness of family" or the "closeness to nature"?

How does "closeness" differ from "proximity"?

"Proximity" generally refers to physical nearness. "Closeness" can refer to both physical nearness and emotional or relational connections. While you can be in proximity to a stranger, "emotional closeness" requires a deeper connection.