drawing near

USAGE SUMMARY

"drawing near" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to indicate that something is approaching or is arriving soon. Example: The holidays are drawing near, and everyone is getting into the festive spirit.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

I will go ask for machetes and clothing!" and also: "The gold prospectors are drawing near!

Harvard University

The machine's only words are exclamations ("Uh huh" for those drawing near; "Awww" for those moving away).

The New York Times - Science

Well, its time is drawing near!

TechCrunch

The production-city relation has always been dominated by mutual movement oscillating between drawing near and drawing away.

City, Territory and Architecture

And while the libertarian in me has an affinity for Senator Paul's policies, his time is drawing near too.

Huffington Post

Now, with the end of December drawing near, it's the perfect time to check out our top 2k13 highlights.  .

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

My turn is drawing nearer and nearer.

The New York Times

But Wenger's judgment day is drawing nearer.

The Guardian - Sport

That day is drawing nearer.

Forbes

They drew near, as if to kiss.

The New York Times

The two vehicles draw near and stop.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "drawing near" to create a sense of anticipation or imminence, especially when discussing events or deadlines. For example, "As the deadline for submissions is drawing near, make sure to finalize your work."

Common error

Avoid using "drawing near" to describe something that is already present or static. For example, instead of saying "The house is drawing near", which implies movement, use "The house is near" or "The house is close by".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drawing near" functions as an intransitive verb phrase, typically used to describe the gradual approach of an event, time, or object. It creates a sense of anticipation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "drawing near" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the approach of an event, time, or object. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts. Its frequent presence in news and media sources underscores its relevance in describing upcoming events, while academic usage signals its suitability for formal communication. While alternatives like "approaching" or "nearing" exist, "drawing near" carries a subtle nuance of anticipation. Remember to avoid using "drawing near" in static contexts and to employ it strategically to enhance the sense of imminence in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approaching

Focuses on the act of getting closer in space or time.

nearing

Highlights the process of becoming nearer to a specific point or event.

coming closer

Emphasizes the reduction in distance.

getting closer

Similar to 'coming closer' but can also imply emotional closeness.

on the horizon

Metaphorically suggests that something is imminent but still distant.

in sight

Indicates that something is visible or achievable soon.

looming

Suggests something large or significant is approaching, potentially with a sense of threat.

impending

Similar to 'looming' but applies more to events or occurrences.

just around the corner

Idiomatically conveys that something will happen very soon.

close at hand

Indicates something is readily available or likely to happen soon.

FAQs

How can I use "drawing near" in a sentence?

"Drawing near" is often used to describe an event or time that is approaching. For instance, "As the holidays are "drawing near", everyone is getting into the festive spirit."

What's a more formal way to say "drawing near"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "approaching" or "nearing". For example, instead of "The date is drawing near", you could say "The date is "approaching"" or "The date is "nearing"".

Is it correct to say "drawing nearer" instead of "drawing near"?

While "drawing nearer" is grammatically correct and emphasizes the continuous process of approaching, "drawing near" is more commonly used. Consider the context to determine which sounds more appropriate. In most cases, "drawing near" is sufficient.

What's the difference between "drawing near" and "just around the corner"?

"Drawing near" is a general way of saying something is approaching, while "just around the corner" is an idiom that specifically indicates something will happen very soon. The idiom conveys a sense of immediacy.