not exactly close

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not exactly close" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is not very near or similar to something else, often in a figurative sense. Example: "When it comes to their opinions on the matter, they are not exactly close, which leads to frequent disagreements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

That would be a closer race — if not exactly close — compared to 2008.

The New York Times

But they did not exactly close the door to the idea, either.

The New York Times

With all the factory riders' contracts up in 2012, Rossi realises "the cards will be reshuffled a bit" and when asked about a possible return to a Japanese bike his answer did not exactly close the door on that prospect.

BBC

But in Oregon, it is a closer contest (if not exactly close).

The New York Times

CINDERELLA: I mean, I have stepsisters, but we're not exactly close, what with the f— PRINCE: The forced-servitude thing, right.

The New Yorker

The engineering company Babcock works it all, with the overwhelming majority of its employees from the neighbouring (if not exactly close) island of St Helena, like most of the rest of the island's workforce.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

First, the Shruti is not exactly closed; Upanishads, for example, have been composed until recent times.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In a letter to customers, Mr. Feinsod explained that the Rye store is not exactly closing, just merging with the one in Port Chester.

The New York Times

The two men aren't exactly close together on the political spectrum, but they are unlikely friends in real life.

The Guardian

"On the other hand, he can't exactly close the cases, because they're severe, so he will do what other Attorney Generals have done: he will put them on a shelf, and every once in a while he will do something call someone in for questioning, that sort of thing but will make sure to drag his feet".

The New Yorker

That doesn't exactly close the case, though.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not exactly close" to politely downplay a relationship or similarity without being overly negative or dismissive. For example, "While we work together, we're "not exactly close" friends."

Common error

Avoid using "not exactly close" in very formal or technical writing, as it can sound too conversational. Consider more precise language if required by the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not exactly close" functions as a qualifier or an understatement. It's used to mitigate or soften a statement about a lack of closeness or similarity. As confirmed by Ludwig, the expression is valid and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not exactly close" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that indicates a lack of strong connection or proximity, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to soften or qualify statements about relationships or similarities. While prevalent in News & Media, Wiki, and Academic contexts, its register remains fairly neutral, making it versatile across different writing styles. When seeking alternatives, consider phrases like "not quite near" or "somewhat distant", depending on the specific context. Remember to avoid overly formal settings where more precise language may be required. As the expression is valid according to Ludwig, use it to downplay relationships or similarities without being overly negative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not quite near

Emphasizes a lack of proximity, either physically or conceptually.

not particularly close

Highlights the absence of a strong connection or relationship.

not really intimate

Focuses on the lack of emotional closeness or personal connection.

somewhat distant

Indicates a degree of separation or remoteness.

not intimately acquainted

Implies a lack of deep familiarity or personal knowledge.

relatively far apart

Stresses the extent of separation or divergence.

not especially attached

Emphasizes a lack of emotional bond or strong connection.

loosely associated

Suggests a weak or tenuous connection.

not on the best terms

Highlights a strained or difficult relationship.

hardly connected

Indicates a minimal or almost nonexistent relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "not exactly close" in a sentence?

You can use "not exactly close" to describe relationships or situations that are somewhat distant or not strongly connected. For example, "Although they are colleagues, they are "not exactly close" friends."

What are some alternatives to "not exactly close"?

Alternatives include "not quite near", "somewhat distant", or "not particularly close", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "not exactly close" or "not very close"?

"Not exactly close" and "not very close" are similar, but "not exactly close" can sometimes imply a more nuanced or indirect separation. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

When is it appropriate to use "not exactly close"?

It's appropriate when you want to express that something or someone is not in close proximity or relationship, either physically or emotionally, without being overly harsh or negative.