move in close

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move in close" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to approach or get nearer to a person or object, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "As the photographer, I need you to move in close to capture the details of the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

In January, David Zambrano encouraged the audience to move in close as he and his dancers performed solos — by turn, witty, mysterious and ecstatic — set to soul music.

The New York Times - Arts

Move in close enough so that the other person can feel your breath on his or her ear.

WikiHow

Frighten yourself a little and move in close.

The Guardian - Travel

Then you move in close for an absorbing examination of the sensuous material fabric.

The New York Times - Arts

They could play with identity, prod it, stand back from it, move in close.

The New York Times - Arts

A small crowd of women gather as I speak to one or two and move in close.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

We move in closer as he recounts the last minutes of Imam Hussein's life.

The Guardian

He huddled with his mother, his sister and his brother-in-law as court officers moved in close.

The New York Times

The battle ended with the Patriots' offense moving in close enough for Adam Vinatieri to kick the team into the next round.

The New York Times - Sports

The deputies moved in closer as Robertson walked away, shouting at him to drop his gun, according to sheriff's officials.

Los Angeles Times

You move in closer.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, use "move in close" to encourage detailed observation or engagement with the subject, such as in photography or scientific examination. For example, "Move in close to capture the fine details of the flower."

Common error

While "move in close" is generally acceptable, avoid it in highly formal or academic writing where more precise language might be preferred. Consider alternatives like "approach closely" or "narrow the distance" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "move in close" is as a phrasal verb, acting as an imperative to approach or reduce distance. Ludwig confirms its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Arts

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "move in close" is a phrasal verb used to instruct or describe reducing distance, whether physical or metaphorical. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and commonly used, spanning from news articles to informal guides. While versatile, be mindful of using more formal alternatives in academic writing. Overall, "move in close" is a reliable and adaptable expression in English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approach closely

Focuses on the act of approaching, highlighting the manner in which the movement is performed.

get nearer

Emphasizes the resulting state of being closer, using simpler vocabulary.

draw nearer

Similar to "get nearer" but suggests a gradual or subtle approach.

come closer

A more direct and common alternative, emphasizing the action of reducing distance.

close the distance

Highlights the act of diminishing the space between two entities.

advance toward

Suggests a more deliberate and directional movement.

step forward

Emphasizes a single step taken to reduce the distance.

press in

Implies a crowding or forceful movement inward.

creep closer

Suggests a stealthy or subtle approach.

get intimate

Shifts the focus to the emotional or relational aspect of closeness.

FAQs

What does "move in close" mean?

"Move in close" means to approach something or someone, reducing the distance between them. It can refer to physical proximity or a more intimate connection.

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

You can use "move in close" to instruct someone to get nearer, as in "The photographer asked the model to move in close for a better shot". It can also be used metaphorically, such as "The investigator had to move in close to uncover the truth".

What are some alternatives to "move in close"?

You can use alternatives like "approach closely", "get nearer", or "draw nearer" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "move in close"?

It's appropriate to use "move in close" in a variety of contexts, from giving directions to describing relationships. However, consider more formal alternatives in academic or professional writing. Avoid it if physical closeness is inappropriate or could be misinterpreted.