closer by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "closer by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate proximity in time or space, often in a comparative context. Example: "The deadline is closer by than we initially thought, so we need to act quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Driving it, the year 1872 felt closer by the mile.

The New York Times - Travel

Impenetrable-looking brick buildings loom off in the distance, boarded-up windows flash closer by.

The New York Times

In the distance, and closer by too, explosions could be heard.

The Economist

If anything, the three members of Chvrches have been brought closer by their experiences.

Independent

In none of these cases will the manager use the "closer by committee" by choice.

The New York Times - Sports

He expects the gender disparity to grow closer by the end of the Games.

The Guardian - Sport

Except the Boston Red Sox eschew the "closer by committee" label.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

After that, Francona settled on a closer-by-committee arrangement.

The New York Times - Sports

If Franco does not sign with the Phillies, they will probably go with a closer-by-committee.

The New York Times - Sports

In the National ART programme, pre-ART counseling content may recommend patients to utilize closer-by health facilities for minor illnesses that are not ART toxicities.

BMC Health Services Research

He was a two-way player filling spots both at third base and a co-closer by his junior season.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "closer by" to clearly indicate a comparative reduction in distance, time, or abstraction. It is most effective when contrasting two situations or points in time, enhancing clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "closer by" when a simple adjective like "closer" is sufficient. For example, instead of saying "The store is closer by", say "The store is closer". This maintains clarity and avoids unnecessary wordiness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closer by" functions as a comparative adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate a reduction in distance, time, or degree. Ludwig examples show its use in spatial proximity ("Looking West The actual inspiration was closer by"), temporal nearness ("US midterm elections are getting closer by the day"), and relational connection ("The two airlines were driven closer by difficult market conditions").

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

36%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "closer by" is a grammatically correct and commonly used comparative adverbial phrase, as supported by Ludwig AI analysis. It is most often used in News & Media and Science contexts to express a reduction in distance, time, or degree. While neutral in register, it's crucial to ensure the comparative aspect is clear, avoiding its use when a simpler adjective suffices. Be mindful of potential misinterpretations and select related phrases such as "nearer" or "in closer proximity" when appropriate to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearer

Indicates a shorter distance; a more direct synonym focused solely on physical proximity.

in closer proximity

Emphasizes the state of being near; more formal and focused on spatial relation.

more proximate

Highlights immediate closeness; implies a direct causal or spatial relationship.

within closer reach

Focuses on accessibility and attainment; suggests something is easier to get to or achieve.

drawing nearer

Emphasizes the process of approaching; suggests a gradual reduction in distance or time.

approaching more closely

Highlights the manner of approach; implies careful or deliberate reduction in distance.

getting closer to

Suggests progress towards a goal or relationship; less about physical space, more about abstract goals.

advancing steadily

Highlights consistent progress, removing the direct spatial element of closeness.

in closer connection

Shifts focus to a relationship or bond, suggesting increased intimacy or understanding.

growing increasingly intimate

Emphasizes emotional or relational closeness, removing any implication of physical proximity.

FAQs

How can I use "closer by" in a sentence?

Use "closer by" to show something is becoming nearer in distance, time, or relationship. For example, "As the deadline approached, the due date felt "closer by" the day."

What phrases can I use instead of "closer by"?

Alternatives include "nearer", "in closer proximity", or "drawing nearer", depending on the specific context.

Is it more correct to say "closer by" or "closer"?

Using "closer" is generally sufficient when indicating proximity. "Closer by" implies a comparative aspect, suggesting something is becoming nearer relative to a previous state or another object. So, it depends on the intended meaning.

When should I use "closer by" instead of just "closer"?

Use "closer by" when you want to emphasize the process of something becoming nearer. For example, "They were driven "closer by" difficult market conditions" suggests the market conditions actively caused them to become closer.