next to you

USAGE SUMMARY

"next to you" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the physical location of someone or something near you. For example: I saw my friend's car parked next to you.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I'll be right next to you.

The New Yorker

It's right next to you.

The New York Times

I've really enjoyed sitting next to you.

The New Yorker

Grab the mic that's next to you.

Yale University

But he's right there next to you.

The Guardian

The final rule: Keep up with those next to you.

The New York Times

"O.K. if I sit next to you?" he asked.

The New York Times - Sports

You're not competing against the garden next to you.

Independent

You almost hit the guy next to you.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"The guy next to you?" I asked.

The New Yorker

Guy Next To You: Ooh, nice choice.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "next to you" when you want to clearly indicate physical proximity. For example, "The book is right next to you on the table".

Common error

Ensure the context makes it clear who "you" refers to. If there's any chance of confusion, specify the person by name or description: "The instructions are for the person next to you, Sarah."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "next to you" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a spatial relationship. It modifies a verb or noun, specifying the location of something or someone in relation to the person being addressed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

37%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "next to you" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to denote physical proximity. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and provides abundant examples. It is most frequently found in news and media, as well as general informational contexts like WikiHow. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly identifies to whom "you" refers to avoid ambiguity. Similar phrases include "beside you" and "near you", though "next to you" is often the most straightforward and widely understood choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beside you

A more direct synonym, emphasizing physical closeness.

adjacent to you

A more formal term for being nearby, often used in technical contexts.

close to you

Indicates nearness, but can also imply emotional closeness.

near you

A general term for proximity, less specific than "next to".

in your vicinity

A more formal and less personal way of indicating nearness.

by your side

Implies support and companionship in addition to physical proximity.

in close proximity to you

A more verbose and formal way of saying "near you".

at your elbow

Suggests very close proximity, almost touching.

within arm's reach of you

Indicates that something is easily accessible.

in your immediate area

Refers to the general surroundings of the person.

FAQs

How can I use "next to you" in a sentence?

Use "next to you" to indicate that someone or something is in close physical proximity to the person being addressed. For instance, "The store is located right next to you on Main Street".

What phrases are similar to "next to you"?

Alternatives include "beside you", "adjacent to you", or "near you". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "next to you" grammatically correct?

Yes, "next to you" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to describe physical proximity.

When should I use "beside you" instead of "next to you"?

While "next to you" and "beside you" are often interchangeable, "next to you" is more common in everyday language. "Beside you" might be preferred in more formal or literary contexts, but the difference is subtle.