keeping them close

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keeping them close" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to express the idea of maintaining proximity or a strong relationship with someone or something. Example: "In times of uncertainty, I find comfort in keeping them close, as their support is invaluable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Pitches thrown Randy Johnson: 4,076 Curt Schilling 3,709 Chan Ho Parkk: 3,689 Bartolo Colon: 3,650 Pitches seen Bobby Abreu: 2,896 Jeff Bagwell: 2,890 Alex Rodriguez: 2,881 Troy Glaus: 2,853 Keeping Them Close The pitchers with the most pickoff throws.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Shechter straightened his arms, keeping them close to his ears, and held the pose underwater.

The New York Times

Pastor Dean, as he is known, "for the past 11 years has tried to ease the anguish of major league and minor league umpires by keeping them close to God," Mooallem writes.

The New Yorker

Where an attack averaging the second-fewest shots-per-game in the league has left the Black and Red thriving off opponents' errors, Chivas's ability to avoid mistakes was keeping them close enough for Cubo to matches.

The Guardian - Sport

Pelosi's friendly rapport with Ocasio-Cortez is reflective of how she has engaged her party's left wing as speaker — cultivating them and keeping them close but never letting them pull her off course.

The Washington Post

And the importance of keeping them close.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Many judges insist that keeping them closed is essential.

The New York Times

"They'll be spending more money on keeping them closed than keeping them open.

The Guardian - Books

The hearings are secret under state law, and many judges favor keeping them closed.

The New York Times

Keeping them closed has led to significant financial losses for power companies, which have been forced to make up for the power shortfall with expensive fossil fuel imports.

The New York Times

Fume hoods are one of the most energy intensive types of equipment in a laboratory environment, but significant savings can be achieved by keeping them closed when not in use.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing emotional support, use "keeping them close" to convey a sense of security and reliance, especially in times of distress or uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "keeping them close" in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more precise language like "maintaining proximity" or "ensuring constant supervision" for enhanced clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keeping them close" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used to describe the act of maintaining physical or emotional proximity. It can also function as part of a larger clause, expressing purpose or reason. Ludwig confirms the usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keeping them close" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that indicates maintaining proximity or a strong emotional bond. Ludwig AI confirms this. It is most frequently used in news and media, as well as wiki contexts. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in extremely formal or technical writing, opting for more specific terms. When using the phrase, it's important to consider the context and ensure that it appropriately conveys the desired sense of care, protection, or connection. Related phrases, such as "maintaining proximity" or "holding them near", can provide alternative ways to express similar ideas, depending on the nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintaining proximity

Focuses on the physical distance aspect.

holding them near

Emphasizes the act of physically holding or embracing.

staying connected

Highlights the ongoing relationship and communication.

remaining in contact

Stresses the maintenance of communication channels.

cultivating their friendship

Specifically refers to nurturing relationships.

fostering intimacy

Highlights emotional connection and closeness.

nurturing the relationship

Emphasizes the care and development of a bond.

protecting them

Focuses on safeguarding and defending.

looking after them

Highlights the act of caring and providing for their needs.

supervising them

Focuses on monitoring and overseeing their actions.

FAQs

How can I use "keeping them close" in a sentence?

You can use "keeping them close" to describe maintaining physical proximity or emotional connection. For example, "She found solace in keeping her children close during the storm".

What are some alternatives to "keeping them close"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "holding them near", "maintaining proximity", or "staying connected".

Is there a difference between "keeping them close" and "keeping them nearby"?

"Keeping them close" often implies emotional connection and care, while "keeping them nearby" focuses more on physical proximity without necessarily implying a deep relationship.

When should I use "keeping them close" instead of "protecting them"?

Use "keeping them close" when you want to emphasize the comfort and security derived from proximity. Use "protecting them" when the focus is on shielding them from harm or danger.