gradually closing in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually closing in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is slowly approaching or becoming more intense over time. Example: "As the storm approached, the dark clouds were gradually closing in on the horizon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The physicalist's picture is that science is gradually closing in on a complete account of consciousness by learning more and more about how consciousness depends on physical structures and processes.

The New York Times

We're gradually closing in.

The Guardian - Travel

They made the long walk, each gradually closing in on the model who preceded him.

The New Yorker

The captain continues toward the Pole, ice gradually closing in around him.

The New Yorker

The answers land higher than pi and lower than pi, skipping back and forth across pi, and gradually closing in on pi.

The New Yorker

It does feel like it's gradually closing in and can be quite suffocating at times which will be interesting to see play out.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Darkness gradually closed in from the side aisles and transepts as the candles were blown out.

The Guardian

They gradually closed in on Mr. Nunez until finding him in the basement in the Bronx.

The New York Times

From India came "Crunch", a show in which the walls of a house gradually closed in on contestants.Ever-shrinking commissioning budgets at home are a problem, too.

The Economist

As the German noose pulls tighter, the Levins' world gradually closes in until it is concentrated on their apartment, the contents of the store cupboard, the stove, and Anna's dangerous forays to collect their bread ration or to forage for wood among the city's bombed-out buildings.

The Guardian - Books

"Another aim is to protest against the current tendency of schools being gradually closed in Sri Lanka," he told BBC Sinhala service, Sandeshaya.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gradually closing in" to vividly describe scenarios where something is steadily approaching a subject or location, creating a sense of anticipation or enclosure. For example, "The fog was gradually closing in on the town, creating an eerie atmosphere."

Common error

Avoid using "gradually closing in" when referring to instant actions or situations where there is no actual convergence or physical proximity. For example, it would be incorrect to say, "The answer was gradually closing in," if the solution was discovered suddenly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually closing in" functions as a verb phrase that typically modifies a noun or pronoun, describing a progressive action. It depicts a process of approaching or converging over time, adding detail and dynamism to the description. As Ludwig AI points out, it depicts a process of approaching.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gradually closing in" is a grammatically sound verb phrase effectively used to depict a progressive action of approaching or converging. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media, where it often enhances descriptions by creating suspense or illustrating strategic maneuvers. While "gradually closing in" is considered uncommon, effective alternatives include "steadily approaching" and "slowly converging". Be mindful of the scope to ensure correct usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

steadily approaching

Focuses on the consistent movement forward, removing the sense of confinement.

slowly converging

Emphasizes the act of coming together at a point, shifting from spatial proximity to a union.

progressively nearing

Highlights incremental advancement towards a destination, omitting the enclosing aspect.

inching closer

Suggests a series of small movements toward something, implying a more cautious or hesitant approach.

drawing nearer

Implies an advance in proximity, offering a somewhat literary or formal tone.

slowly advancing

Highlights the forward movement, differing by removing the idea of reducing space.

becoming imminent

Shifts the focus to the increasing likelihood of an event, rather than physical proximity.

slowly encroaching

Suggests a gradual intrusion or advance, often with a negative or unwelcome connotation.

tightening the noose

Presents an idiom for increasing restriction of one's freedom, conveying a negative and limiting condition.

closing the gap

Highlights the reduction of difference between two things, diverging from spatial implications to indicate improvement.

FAQs

How can I use "gradually closing in" in a sentence?

Use "gradually closing in" to describe a slow but steady approach or encirclement. For example, "The police were gradually closing in on the suspect", or "As winter approached, the darkness was gradually closing in.

What are some alternatives to "gradually closing in"?

You can use alternatives like "steadily approaching", "slowly converging", or "progressively nearing" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "gradually closing in" in formal writing?

Yes, "gradually closing in" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing a process or situation that unfolds over time. However, consider the tone and choose alternatives if a more precise or technical term is available.

What does "gradually closing in" imply?

"Gradually closing in" implies a steady reduction of distance or options, often creating a sense of increasing pressure or inevitability. This can be used to build suspense or describe a strategic maneuver.