stay close

USAGE SUMMARY

'stay close' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the importance of proximity or remaining in close contact with someone. For example, "I want you to stay close and update me on any changes".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Now stay close to Mama.

The New Yorker

Stay close to them.

The Guardian - Books

To stay close?

The Washington Post

Kids, stay close, stay in.

The Guardian - Books

"Because I stay close to him.

The New York Times - Sports

We can't stay close to our fences.

The Guardian

I want to stay close to everything".

The New York Times

"I mostly stay close to this side".

The New York Times

I'd rather stay close to home.

The New York Times - Travel

So I stay close to home".

The New York Times - Arts

"To stay close to Lidia is to stay close to where I come from.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stay close" in safety instructions, follow it with a reason to emphasize the importance, like "Stay close to the group to avoid getting lost."

Common error

While "stay close" is perfectly acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives such as "maintain proximity" or "remain nearby" to enhance the tone and precision of your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stay close" functions primarily as an imperative, urging someone to maintain proximity. It can also serve as a declarative statement indicating a preference or intention to remain nearby. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is common and acceptable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

34%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Science

6%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stay close" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase widely used in both formal and informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common usage, spanning from news and media to wikis and business communications. Its primary function is to urge proximity for reasons ranging from safety to emotional support. While simple and direct, it can be enhanced with more sophisticated alternatives like "maintain proximity" in formal writing. Whether advising someone to stay near during a hike or encouraging emotional connection, "stay close" remains a relevant and effective phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep near

A simpler, more direct way of expressing physical closeness.

remain nearby

Focuses on maintaining physical proximity.

maintain proximity

Emphasizes the act of keeping near.

be in close proximity

A more formal way of expressing nearness.

keep in contact

Highlights maintaining communication, not necessarily physical closeness.

keep in touch

Similar to "keep in contact", focuses on communication.

stick together

Implies a group staying close, often for support or safety.

don't stray

A command to not move away.

hold near

Emphasizes a sense of protection or affection while being close.

be within reach

Focuses on the capability of getting to something or someone easily.

FAQs

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

"Stay close" can be used to advise someone to remain nearby for safety, comfort, or any other reason. For example, "During the hike, I told my children to stay close".

What's a more formal alternative to "stay close"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "maintain proximity" or "remain nearby".

Is it always about physical nearness when using "stay close"?

While often referring to physical proximity, "stay close" can also imply emotional or communicative connection, as in "keep in contact" to maintain a relationship.

How does the meaning of "stay close" change with different contexts?

The meaning is adaptable; it can indicate physical nearness in a literal sense (e.g., "Stay close to the shore") or imply emotional closeness and support (e.g., staying close to loved ones during a difficult time).