get close to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get close to" is correct and usable in formal written English.
You can use the phrase to describe a physical proximity between two people or things, or to describe an emotional connection. For example: "The couple had been married for 30 years and they still managed to get close to one another."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Neither child could get close to anyone.

The New Yorker

"He tried to get close to everyone.

Independent

He was tough to get close to.

The New York Times

No. 8: Get Close to Ugly Foods.

The New York Times

Could we get close to The Guardian?

Independent

"That's how you get close to anger.

The New York Times

We never get close to Elvira's sorrow.

The New York Times

We couldn't get close to them".

The Guardian - Sport

But he cannot get close to them.

The New York Times - Books

They don't get close to me".

The New York Times - Sports

No one can get close to Guangcheng.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get close to" to describe a relationship, consider the specific nuance you want to convey: physical proximity, emotional intimacy, or increasing familiarity.

Common error

In formal contexts, avoid overusing "get close to" when more precise verbs like "approach", "approximate", or "reach" could better convey your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get close to" functions primarily as a phrasal verb. It can describe physical proximity, emotional connection, or approximation. Ludwig showcases examples where it conveys both physical closeness and interpersonal relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

32%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "get close to" is a versatile phrasal verb indicating physical or emotional proximity, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its grammatical status is correct, and it is very common in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. While generally neutral, formal settings may benefit from more precise alternatives like "approach" or "approximate". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in formal written English. When using "get close to", consider the desired nuance and avoid overuse in highly formal contexts. The phrase functions to describe a movement towards reducing distance or fostering a sense of connection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come closer to

Indicates a movement intending to decrease the space between two things or people.

approach

Suggests a movement towards something or someone, focusing on reducing distance.

near

Implies physical proximity, similar to "get close to" but more static.

draw near to

Suggests a gradual movement towards a destination or object.

become intimate with

Emphasizes emotional closeness or a deepening relationship.

get intimate with

Focuses on developing a personal and emotional connection.

make contact with

Indicates establishing communication or a physical meeting.

reach

Focuses on arriving at or attaining a specific point or goal.

close in on

Suggests moving to surround a target, often in a pursuing manner.

approximate

Focuses on estimation; to come close to a value or number.

FAQs

How can I use "get close to" in a sentence?

You can use "get close to" to describe physical proximity, such as "They can't "get close to" the fence because it's guarded", or emotional intimacy, like "It may be difficult to "get close to" people".

What are some alternatives to "get close to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "approach", "near", or "approximate". Choose the word that best fits the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it better to say "get close to" or "approach"?

While both phrases indicate a reduction in distance, ""get close to"" often implies a more personal or intimate connection, whereas ""approach"" is more neutral and can be used in formal contexts.

When should I avoid using the phrase "get close to"?

Avoid using ""get close to"" in formal writing where a more precise or sophisticated verb would be appropriate, such as in academic papers or business reports.