incrementally closer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "incrementally closer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual approach or movement towards a goal or target over time. Example: "With each step we take in our project, we are getting incrementally closer to our final objective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

We need to become incrementally closer and closer, in all policy areas," the chancellor said.

The Guardian

The stage is devoid of scenery except for a plain, white wall that moves incrementally closer to the audience as the play progresses.

The New York Times

(Nate Chinen Ben Allison Bandd (Friday) The bassist and composer Ben Allison moves incrementally closer to a rock ethos on "The Stars Look Very Different Today," due out in December.

The New York Times - Arts

We need to become incrementally closer and closer, in all policy areas..

Huffington Post

Unless your folks are bastards and are moving your bed incrementally closer to the front door each night, then don't sweat it.

Vice

And it repeated ad infinitum as those tiny twinkling headlights became imperceptibly larger and drew incrementally closer over the course of the million trillion years that it took for the Gods to finally arrive.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The Greens policy is to incrementally close coal power plants, starting with the most polluting ones.

The Guardian

In addition, the Medicare Part D coverage gap (commonly called the "donut hole") will shrink incrementally, closing completely by January 1 , 2020

Wikipedia

In this study we attempt to incrementally close the gap between cells and tissue by evaluating the role of peptide mediators historically identified as growth factors (PDGF and TGF-β) in providing a context for the response of FLS to inflammatory cytokines.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

TARGET-DATE funds are all intended to do the same thing: reduce stock market risk incrementally the closer you get to your retirement target date.

The New York Times

The visual feedback of seeing rewards incrementally move closer has previously been shown to act as conditioned reinforcement in two problem-solving tasks in corvids.

Animal Cognition

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "incrementally closer" to emphasize a gradual and consistent approach towards a specific goal or state, particularly when highlighting the small steps involved.

Common error

Avoid using "incrementally closer" when describing sudden or immediate changes. The term emphasizes a gradual process, not an instantaneous event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "incrementally closer" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifically an adverb (incrementally) modifying an adjective (closer). As illustrated by Ludwig, it typically describes a gradual or progressive change in proximity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "incrementally closer" effectively conveys a gradual, step-by-step progression towards a goal or reduction in distance. Ludwig indicates its usage is grammatically correct and more common in News & Media and Science domains. While not as frequent as simpler alternatives like "getting closer", it provides a nuanced way to emphasize continuous and incremental progress. The analysis highlights its neutral register, making it suitable for various contexts while maintaining a degree of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gradually approaching

Focuses on the act of approaching rather than the state of being closer.

Slowly nearing

Emphasizes the slowness of the approach.

Steadily advancing

Highlights the consistent and unwavering nature of the movement.

Progressively converging

Implies a coming together from different points, suitable for abstract concepts.

Bit by bit reducing the gap

Emphasizes the step-by-step reduction of the distance.

Inch by inch drawing nearer

Emphasizes minimal steps towards getting closer.

Little by little closing in

Suggests a subtle and perhaps less noticeable approach.

Coming within striking distance

Implies nearing a point where an action can be taken.

Approaching the target

More specific, implying a defined target is getting closer.

Getting closer over time

Highlights the temporal aspect of becoming closer.

FAQs

What does "incrementally closer" mean?

The phrase "incrementally closer" means approaching something gradually, step by step, rather than all at once. It emphasizes the small, consistent advancements being made.

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

You can use "incrementally closer" to describe progress towards a goal. For example: "With each adjustment, the model is becoming "increasingly accurate" and we are getting "incrementally closer" to the final result."

What are some alternatives to "incrementally closer"?

Some alternatives to "incrementally closer" include "gradually approaching", "slowly nearing", or "steadily advancing". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "incrementally closer" and "getting closer"?

"Getting closer" is a more general term, whereas "incrementally closer" specifically emphasizes the gradual, step-by-step nature of the approach. It highlights that the progress is made in small increments.