edge closer

USAGE SUMMARY

"edge closer" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to indicate that something (person, object, event, etc.) is getting closer to something else, usually in relation to time. For example, "As the deadline for the project edges closer, the team members become increasingly anxious."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She might edge closer to consciousness".

The New Yorker

Increasing numbers of people edge closer to absolute poverty.

The Economist

Sometimes kayaks edge closer, darting near the shoreline.

The New York Times

On that issue, it seems, China and the U.S. will continue to edge closer to confrontation.

The New Yorker

If we ignore it, more of us will edge closer to disaster.

Stanford University

As he tried to edge closer the cat pulled away, keeping out of reach.

The Guardian - Books

The only area where husbands edge closer to sharing their wives' time commitment is child care.

The New York Times

The upcoming qualifying double-header offers Lampard the chance to edge closer to the 100-game milestone with England.

Independent

But it was the Australian who continued to edge closer to the winning line despite the increasing tension.

Independent

AFC Wimbledon continue to edge closer to safety – their 2-0 victoverover Morecambe was their fourth win in five.

The Guardian - Sport

March 2 George Davey-SMDth, MDsCDsCanan we edge closer to causal understanding using observational data?

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "edge closer" to describe a gradual and often subtle approach towards something, whether it's a physical object, a goal, or a deadline. This suggests a slow and steady progression.

Common error

Avoid using "edge closer" to describe sudden or rapid movements. This phrase implies a slow, incremental progression, not a quick or abrupt shift. Use alternative phrases like "rush toward" or "dart closer" to convey rapid movement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "edge closer" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, indicating a gradual movement towards something. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English, demonstrating how it signifies a progressive nearing, whether physically or metaphorically.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "edge closer" is a common and grammatically sound phrasal verb used to describe a gradual approach or progression. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in news and academic writing. While versatile, remember that "edge closer" implies a slow and deliberate movement, distinct from sudden or rapid actions. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "move nearer" or "draw nearer" to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Avoiding overuse and choosing the most appropriate synonym based on context strengthens your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come closer

A simpler, more direct way of expressing the same idea.

move nearer

Focuses on physical movement, implying a reduction in distance.

draw nearer

Suggests a gradual and often imperceptible approach.

inch closer

Emphasizes a slow and cautious advance.

advance toward

Indicates a forward movement with a specific destination in mind.

creep closer

Implies a stealthy or secretive approach.

progress toward

Highlights the incremental steps taken towards a goal.

approach

A more formal and general term for getting nearer.

near

Uses a single verb to convey the action of getting closer.

close in

Implies surrounding, encircling or restricting something as it gets closer.

FAQs

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

You can use "edge closer" to describe a gradual movement or progression towards something. For example: "As the deadline "draws near", the team members "edge closer" to finishing the project".

What are some alternatives to "edge closer"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "move nearer", "draw nearer", or "inch closer".

Is it correct to say "edge more closer"?

No, "edge more closer" is redundant. "Edge closer" already implies a movement in proximity, so adding "more" is unnecessary. Simply use "edge closer".

What's the difference between "edge closer" and "get closer"?

"Edge closer" implies a more gradual and cautious movement compared to "get closer", which is a more general term for reducing the distance between two things. "Get closer" doesn't necessarily suggest a slow or deliberate approach.