on close terms

USAGE SUMMARY

"on close terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a relationship between two people or groups that is characterized by a familiarity or a level of intimacy. For example, you could say "My sister and I have always been on close terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

He has long been on close terms with Mr Bush.

The Economist

They told me, 'We know you two are on close terms.

The New York Times

Murrumu is on close terms with Scullion and regards him as a friend.

The Guardian

Franco seemed determined throughout the war to remain neutral, though was on close terms with Germany behind the scenes.

The Guardian

Richard was also on close terms with some ambitious younger men, notably Robert de Vere, Earl of Oxford, and the knights Ralph Stafford and James Berners.

Encyclopedia Britannica

BERLIN -- The composer Emmanuel Chabrier was on close terms with Impressionistic painters, even appearing as a subject in Degas's painting "L'Orchestre" and in two portraits by Manet.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"He just felt that those who worked for the ousting of Saddam should get on closer terms with each other".

The New Yorker

The synods developed rules to govern the relations between Christians and Jews, who were living on closer terms because of changing historical conditions.

Britannica

Everyone understands immediately that they have no choice but to interact with everyone else on closer terms than in any metropolis.

HuffPost

If you're on closer terms, try gift-giving.

WikiHow

Its appeal to customers was based on a reputation for value for money that in turn rested on close long-term relationships with almost exclusively UK suppliers and a highly enlightened, if paternalistic, attitude to staff welfare.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on close terms" to describe relationships characterized by familiarity, trust, and frequent interaction. It's appropriate for both personal and professional contexts when emphasizing the strength of the bond.

Common error

Avoid using "on close terms" when describing purely formal or superficial relationships. This phrase implies a degree of intimacy and mutual understanding that might be misleading in strictly professional or distant associations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on close terms" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or noun to describe the nature of a relationship. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its usage in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on close terms" is a common and correct way to describe a relationship characterized by familiarity, trust, and frequent interaction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s usable in diverse written English contexts. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, it is considered register-neutral, indicating widespread accessibility. When writing, remember to reserve its usage for associations that involve a degree of intimacy, avoiding purely formal or superficial connections. Consider alternatives like "intimately acquainted" in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely connected

Highlights the degree of connection and mutual influence.

in intimate association

This alternative emphasizes the depth and privacy of the relationship.

in a strong rapport

This suggests a mutual understanding and harmonious connection.

intimately acquainted

Focuses on the depth of personal knowledge and understanding.

on friendly footing

Suggests a positive and amiable relationship.

on first-name terms

Highlights informality and familiarity in the relationship.

hand in glove

Suggests a close, collaborative, and often seamless relationship.

thick as thieves

Emphasizes a very close and loyal relationship, sometimes implying shared secrets.

in cahoots

Implies a secretive or collusive relationship.

well-connected

Focuses on having important social or professional relationships.

FAQs

How can I use "on close terms" in a sentence?

You can use "on close terms" to describe a relationship where people know each other well and interact frequently. For example, "The two leaders were "on close terms", often discussing policy matters over dinner".

What's a more formal way to say "on close terms"?

While "on close terms" is suitable for many contexts, a more formal alternative could be "intimately acquainted" or "closely associated", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to be "on close terms" with someone?

To be "on close terms" with someone means you have a friendly, intimate relationship with them. You know them well, communicate frequently, and share a level of trust and understanding.

Is it appropriate to use "on close terms" in a professional setting?

Yes, it can be appropriate in a professional setting if you are describing a strong, collaborative relationship built on trust and mutual respect. However, avoid using it if the relationship is strictly formal or superficial, as it implies a level of familiarity that might not be accurate.