seal closed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seal closed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the action of closing or securing something, such as an envelope or container, to ensure it is not opened. Example: "Make sure to seal closed the package before sending it to avoid any damage during transit."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Slit a tennis ball open, insert some beans or jingle bells, and seal closed with glue or rubber cement.

WikiHow

Add the cod to the marinade bag, seal closed, and turn the bag gently so that the cod is completely coated.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

While retailers like Macy's shutters stores and others like Wet Seal closes their doors for good, PetSmart is in expansion mode.

Forbes

TachoSil is an adhesive collagen fleece used in different surgical disciplines that provides an air- and liquid-tight seal closing communications between the ventricular system and the resection cavity after tumor removal.

Acta Neurochirurgica

The bag is opaque, can be opened with one hand, seals closed and is biodegradable.

The Guardian

When Elgin was born, both his hands were balled into fists, sealed closed by amniotic bands that attached to the end of his fingers and webbed them together.

The Guardian - Sport

This is the state of a sealed (closed) source rock in the subsurface.

Geochemical Transactions

However, these cells will get a dollop of royal jelly before they are sealed closed.

Huffington Post

He brought an oversized grey portfolio, a little beaten-up and sealed closed with duct tape.

HuffPost

If you note the dates (wall labels are inconsistent or nonexistent), Prince's work grows hermetically sealed, closed off from fresh ideas.

Los Angeles Times

Sealed closed envelopes containing random codes (A or B) were used to assign subjects to either the intervention group or the control group.

BMC Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seal closed", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being sealed, such as a container, bag, or opening. This prevents ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "seal closed" in very informal conversations where simpler alternatives like "close it" or "shut it" would be more appropriate. The phrase has a slightly formal tone and can sound unnatural in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seal closed" functions primarily as a verb phrase that describes the action of making something airtight or secure. Ludwig AI analysis confirms this through its examples, where the phrase is used to describe closing containers, bags, and other openings to prevent leakage or unwanted access.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seal closed" is a grammatically correct and functional verb phrase that describes the action of securely closing something. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that while not extremely common, it is used consistently across different contexts like Wiki, News & Media, and Science. For more informal situations, it may be better to use alternatives like "close it" or "shut it". The phrase emphasizes completeness of closure and is often employed when airtightness and safety are crucial. Common usage involves securing containers, bags, and various openings. The register is generally neutral, fitting a range of situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

securely fasten

Emphasizes the act of making something secure in addition to closing it.

firmly shut

Focuses on the action of closing something tightly and completely.

tightly close

Highlights the thoroughness of the closure.

close tightly

A variation of "tightly close", changing the word order slightly.

fasten securely

Similar to "securely fasten", but with a slightly different emphasis.

completely close

Emphasizes the completeness of the closure.

close off

Implies blocking entry or exit, similar to sealing.

make airtight

Focuses on preventing air from entering or escaping.

close and secure

Combines the actions of closing and making something safe.

effect a seal

A more formal way of saying "seal closed", implying a formal or technical context.

FAQs

How can I use "seal closed" in a sentence?

You can use "seal closed" to describe the action of closing something tightly to prevent it from being opened easily or to keep contents secure. For example, "Make sure to seal closed the container to keep the food fresh."

What are some alternatives to "seal closed"?

Alternatives include "securely fasten", "firmly shut", or "tightly close", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "seal closed"?

While "seal" can imply closing, "seal closed" emphasizes the completeness and security of the closure. It can be useful when you want to stress that the item needs to be very tightly shut.

What's the difference between "seal closed" and "close tightly"?

"Seal closed" often implies a more permanent or secure closure, as if with a sealant. "Close tightly" is a more general instruction to ensure something is shut firmly.