getting closer to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting closer to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used when referring to progress that is being made towards a certain goal. For example, "We're getting closer to understanding the cause of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We were getting closer to war.

The New York Times

"Actually getting closer to a metaphorical truth?

The New Yorker

Getting closer to Hell or farther away.

The New Yorker

"I'm getting closer to a decision".

The New York Times

They are getting closer to Baghdad's suburbs.

The Guardian

But others are getting closer to that.

The New York Times - Science

"Now it's getting closer to equal proportions.

The New York Times

We were getting closer to McBride.

The New York Times - Travel

"It's getting closer to Saddam," Makiya said.

The New York Times - Magazine

For Worsley, getting closer to Shackleton was a way of getting closer to himself.

The New Yorker

"If not, they are getting closer to that level".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of nearness and intent: "getting closer to" can imply both physical proximity and movement towards an abstract goal such as an agreement or a solution.

Common error

Avoid using "getting closer to" when the progress is uncertain or merely speculative. For example, don't say "We are getting closer to a solution" if there's no tangible evidence of progress. In such cases, you should employ phrases that reveal the uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting closer to" functions as a dynamic descriptor of progress, indicating a state of approaching or nearing a particular goal or objective. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples where the phrase signifies advancement towards a specific outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "getting closer to" is a versatile and frequently used expression that conveys progress toward a specific goal or objective. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct. It functions as a dynamic descriptor, communicating a sense of advancement and anticipation. While adaptable across various contexts, its register remains generally neutral. To enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity, ensure tangible evidence supports the stated progress when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approaching

This alternative is a single word with a broader scope, it can apply to abstract and phisical concepts

nearing

Similar to approaching, but carries a sense of time or distance nearing its end.

drawing nearer to

This emphasizes a gradual movement and is slightly more formal.

advancing toward

Suggests a deliberate movement forward, often used in strategic contexts.

making headway towards

Focuses on progress and effort in reaching a goal.

on the verge of

Indicates being very near to a significant event or outcome.

on the cusp of

Similar to "on the verge of", but implies a transition point.

within reach of

Highlights the attainability of the goal.

converging on

Suggests multiple elements coming together at a point.

closing in on

Implies a sense of urgency or pressure in the approach.

FAQs

What does "getting closer to" mean?

The phrase "getting closer to" indicates progress toward a specific goal, location, or state. It suggests that the distance or time remaining is decreasing.

How to use "getting closer to" in a sentence?

You can use "getting closer to" to describe physical proximity, like "We're getting closer to the destination", or progress on a project, such as "The team is getting closer to /s/completion".

What can I say instead of "getting closer to"?

You can use alternatives like "approaching", "nearing", or "drawing nearer to" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "getting closer to"?

It's appropriate when there is tangible or measurable progress toward a goal or objective. Avoid using it when progress is uncertain or purely speculative.