in close order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in close order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where things are arranged closely together or in a specific sequence. Example: "The soldiers marched in close order, maintaining perfect alignment as they moved forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

After a relative lull in insider violence against Westerners, also known as green-on-blue attacks, two such attacks have come in close order.

The New York Times

The transaction follows in close order the sale of Citi's truck leasing unit to General Electric last fall for $4.4 billion and the earlier divestiture of its European vendor-finance leasing operation to CIT Group.

Forbes

Detroit won the cup in 1997 and 1998, but it takes three championships in close order to be considered a dynasty.

The New York Times - Sports

In close order behind him came the Green Party's Sian Berry on 3% followed by the Liberal Democrats' Caroline Pidgeon tied with Galloway on 2%.

The Guardian - Opinion

The ranks were full, a thousand men, marching in close order, moving with the military precision of veterans, and keeping time to the music of a full band".

The New York Times

At the head would sit their father Fe'ao, a former Tonga international, still a thunder-thighed man with admirable appetite, sisters Tiffany and Ana in close order.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

As the county's residents read this news the 105th was engaged in the Battle of Perryville on Oct. 8, only 48 days after mustering and with no training in close-order drill; they lacked even a battle flag.

The New York Times

The Yankee soldiers had not been told to fortify their positions — in fact they were ordered not to — which left them camping in the open like Boy Scouts, while daily instruction was given in close-order drill, weapons training and latrine building.

The New York Times

The researcher and manager of each facility worked in close collaboration in order to make the distribution of questionnaires as well as the administration and collection thereof as hassle free as possible to the residents.

Global Health Action

The front was too small: some men, finding no fighting room, withdrew; the rest, in too close order, made a perfect target for arrows.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The march itself was supposed to begin at 1 P.M., and the crowd packed in close, awaiting orders.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing military formations or marching drills, use "in close order" to convey precision and minimal spacing between individuals or units.

Common error

Avoid using "in close order" when describing abstract concepts or situations that do not involve physical arrangement or sequence. It's best suited for concrete descriptions of order and proximity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in close order" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed or a state is maintained. As Ludwig AI confirms, it specifies the manner or arrangement of something.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in close order" describes a state of being closely arranged or sequenced, often implying precision. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and correct. While "in close order" is grammatically sound and found in diverse sources like News & Media and Wiki, its usage is relatively uncommon. The phrase functions as an adverbial, describing manner or arrangement. Related phrases include "in tight formation" and "in close proximity". Use "in close order" when describing physical arrangements or sequences where precision and minimal spacing are important. Keep its specific meaning and register in mind for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in tight formation

Emphasizes a more rigid and structured arrangement.

in close proximity

Highlights nearness in space or time.

in quick succession

Focuses on the rapid occurrence of events.

one after another

Indicates a sequential arrangement or occurrence.

in serried ranks

Suggests a dense and orderly arrangement, often used in military contexts.

in strict sequence

Highlights the importance of a specific order.

in linear arrangement

Implies an arrangement along a straight line.

in a clustered formation

Describes a grouping or bunching together.

in immediate sequence

Underscores an order of high temporal relevance.

in a compact array

Suggests a tightly packed arrangement.

FAQs

How can I use "in close order" in a sentence?

You can use "in close order" to describe soldiers marching "in tight formation" or events happening "in quick succession", depending on the context.

What are some alternatives to "in close order"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "in tight formation", "in close proximity", or "one after another".

Is "in close order" formal or informal?

"In close order" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's more commonly found in formal or technical writing, such as military descriptions or historical accounts. You may prefer using "in close proximity" when writing for a general audience.

What does "in close order" mean?

"In close order" means arranged closely together or happening in quick succession. It often implies precision and minimal spacing, especially in the context of military formations or drills.