get closer

USAGE SUMMARY

"get closer" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
For example, you could use the phrase "Let's get closer" when asking someone to move closer together in order to get a better view of something.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She wanted to get closer.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some try to get closer.

The New York Times

To get closer to Qaddafi?

The New Yorker

Summer interns get closer inspection.

The New York Times

"You get closer".

The New York Times

Think I'll get closer.

The New Yorker

"We will get closer step by step".

The New York Times

I was to get closer still.

The Guardian - Travel

Gureshidze tried to get closer.

The New York Times - Sports

Each time, we get closer.

The New York Times - Science

We want to get closer.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get closer" in writing, consider whether a more specific verb like "approach", "advance", or "narrow" might provide greater precision and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "get closer" in overly abstract or vague contexts where the intended meaning isn't immediately clear. Instead, choose a more concrete and descriptive phrase that accurately reflects the desired outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get closer" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action of reducing physical or metaphorical distance. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

23%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get closer" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates the act of reducing distance, whether physical or metaphorical. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable. This guide, informed by a wealth of real-world examples, explores its usage across various contexts, from News & Media to Academia. While "get closer" is generally appropriate, considering more precise alternatives like "approach" or "advance" can enhance writing. Avoiding overuse in abstract contexts ensures clarity and impact. With its widespread usage and clear meaning, "get closer" remains a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move closer

Emphasizes the act of changing position to decrease distance.

come nearer

Similar to "move closer", but can also imply a change in time.

approach

A single word conveying the action of coming nearer in distance or time.

edge closer

Suggests a slow, careful, and often hesitant movement toward something.

narrow the distance

Highlights the reduction of the space between two points or entities.

draw near

A more formal and literary way of saying "get closer", implying a deliberate approach.

advance toward

Suggests a deliberate and often strategic movement in a particular direction.

close the gap

Focuses on reducing a difference or disparity, not just physical distance.

press in

Implies moving closer, often in a crowded or confined space.

gain ground on

Implies progress towards a goal, often in a competitive context.

FAQs

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

You can use "get closer" to describe moving physically nearer to something, like "I need to "get closer" to the stage to see better". It can also be used metaphorically, such as "We need to "get closer" to understanding their perspective".

What are some alternatives to "get closer"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "approach", "draw near", or "move closer". Each alternative has a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

Is it correct to say "get more closer"?

No, "get more closer" is redundant. "Closer" already implies a comparative degree. The correct phrase is ""get closer"".

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

"Get closer" typically implies a physical movement or an action to reduce distance. "Become closer", on the other hand, often refers to improving a relationship or achieving a deeper understanding, such as when you "become closer" to a friend.