in close quarters

USAGE SUMMARY

"in close quarters" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to a space or a situation that is cramped or crowded. For example, "The office was so small that all the employees had to work in close quarters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Good manners are everything in close quarters.

The New Yorker

"Passion," you see, thrives in close quarters.

The New York Times

He saw prisoners in close quarters.

The New York Times - Arts

That's good – he needs to get tougher in close quarters.

The New York Times

But in close quarters, they are plenty lethal.

The New York Times

Can you picture Lamoriello and Steinbrenner in close quarters?

The New York Times - Sports

Besides, we do long tours in close quarters.

The New York Times

By Dana Goodyear Good manners are everything in close quarters.

The New Yorker

Like just about all centers, Sullivan struggles a bit with power in close quarters.

The New York Times

If this is combat in close quarters, in the dark, how does it turn out?

The New Yorker

D'Brickashaw Ferguson, while not stout in close quarters, brings great feet to the left tackle position.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in close quarters" to accurately describe situations where space is limited, such as in small rooms, crowded events, or during intense combat scenarios. This phrase is particularly effective when emphasizing the challenges or effects of being in such confined conditions.

Common error

Avoid using "in close quarters" when you simply mean 'nearby' or 'adjacent'. This phrase carries a stronger sense of confinement and potential discomfort or intensity, so ensure it fits the specific context you are describing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "in close quarters" is to act as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the conditions or environment in which an action takes place. Ludwig provides numerous examples where the phrase specifies spatial constraints or proximity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in close quarters" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe situations with limited space and physical proximity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is versatile and appears in various contexts, from news and media to more informal settings. When using "in close quarters", consider the specific connotations of confinement and potential intensity to ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning. Alternatives like "in confined spaces" or "in close proximity" may be more appropriate depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember that while it’s useful in diverse situations, it should only be used when emphasizing spatial limitations and nearness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in confined spaces

Emphasizes the limited area available.

in confined environments

Similar to confined spaces, but broader in scope.

in cramped conditions

Highlights the uncomfortable restriction of space.

in tight spaces

Focuses on the narrowness or limited dimensions of an area.

in limited space

Directly refers to the scarcity of room.

in small areas

Refers to physical size being reduced.

in close proximity

Stresses the nearness or adjacency of people or objects.

in intimate settings

Highlights the personal and often private nature of the environment.

in each other's presence

Emphasizes the state of being physically near another person.

shoulder to shoulder

Illustrates physical closeness, often in a collaborative or confrontational context.

FAQs

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

You can use "in close quarters" to describe scenarios where space is limited and proximity is key. For example, "Working in close quarters can sometimes lead to disagreements" or "The soldiers had to fight in close quarters during the battle".

What are some alternatives to saying "in close quarters"?

Alternatives include "in confined spaces", "in cramped conditions", or "in close proximity". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "in close quarters" formal or informal?

"In close quarters" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly found in news articles, academic papers, and everyday conversation, making it a versatile phrase.

What does "in close quarters" imply?

"In close quarters" implies a situation where people or objects are physically near each other, often due to limited space. This can lead to increased interaction, tension, or other effects related to the proximity.