so close

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so close" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to express that something is almost complete, or nearly achieved. For example: "We've been working so hard on the project and we are so close to being finished!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So close.

The New York Times

So close, so close.

The Guardian - Sport

We're so close".

The New York Times - Sports

We got so close.

The New York Times - Sports

I am so close!

The New Yorker

Why sit so close?

The New Yorker

ANSWER So close!

The New York Times

He'd gotten so close.

The New Yorker

I'm always so close.

Independent

"Footloose Gate": So close!

The New York Times

Oh so close.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "so close" to express near misses or proximity to a goal, but consider stronger, more specific synonyms like "nearly there" or "almost reached" for added impact.

Common error

Avoid using "so close" excessively in formal contexts such as academic papers or business reports. Opt for more precise language to convey the intended meaning with greater clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so close" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or adjective. It indicates the degree to which something is near or nearly achieved. Ludwig examples showcase it describing near misses and close relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sports

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "so close" is a common and generally acceptable adverbial phrase used to indicate nearness, proximity, or the near attainment of a goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. While most frequently found in news and media, and sports contexts, it is important to consider the formality of the writing; in business and academic writing, consider using stronger and more specific alternatives. Examples from Ludwig highlight its use in describing near misses, intimate relationships, and almost achieved objectives. In summary, "so close" is a versatile phrase but should be used judiciously depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly there

Emphasizes the proximity to a destination or goal, often used when progress is evident.

almost reached

Focuses on the achievement aspect, highlighting that a goal was on the verge of being attained.

within reach

Highlights that something is attainable, emphasizing the possibility of success.

a hair's breadth away

Implies an extremely small distance separating the current state from the desired outcome.

on the verge of

Signifies that something is about to happen or be achieved very soon.

just around the corner

Indicates that something is imminent and will occur in the near future.

in close proximity

Highlights the nearness in physical space or metaphorical closeness to something.

intimately connected

Focuses on a very tight relationship or association between two things.

within spitting distance

An informal way to express that something is very near or easily attainable.

practically touching

Emphasizes the physical nearness of two objects, close to contact.

FAQs

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

"So close" is typically used to express that something nearly happened or a goal was almost achieved. For example, "We were "so close" to winning the game!"

What are some alternatives to saying "so close"?

Alternatives include "nearly there", "almost reached", or "within reach", depending on the context.

Is "so close, yet so far" a common expression?

Yes, "so close, yet so far" is a common idiom used to describe a situation where someone is very near to achieving something but ultimately fails.

Can "so close" be used to describe relationships?

Yes, "so close" can describe relationships, implying a deep connection or intimacy between people. For example, "They are "so close" they are practically family."