the closest possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the closest possible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing proximity or similarity in various contexts, often to emphasize the maximum extent of closeness or accuracy. Example: "We need to find the closest possible match to the original design in order to maintain brand consistency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now they are paying the closest possible attention.

The Economist

And we are ready to cooperate in this respect at the closest possible opportunity".

The New York Times

Nixon's competence to lead the country during his impeachment crisis also requires the closest possible scrutiny".

The New York Times - Books

All want to see the closest possible ties with the EU if Brexit goes ahead.

The Guardian - Opinion

A wall of drawings comes to life and starts screaming the closest possible equivalent to "Dead by dawn".

The Guardian - Film

I studied these drawings at the closest possible range – my eyes a few centimetres from the paper surface.

The Guardian - Arts

LPA molecular species were selected with the closest possible approximation with available LPA standards for concentration calculation.

Nature

In this way the system achieves the closest possible match between what is desired and what is produced.

Britannica

The spreadsheet that was distributed to ABC executives rounded that total to 1,000 — the closest possible loss.

The New York Times

Several members of the physics faculty have joint appointments in the Department of Astronomy, representing the closest possible link between the disciplines.

Cornell University

In terms of combinatorial balance, MBMUDs are the closest possible approximation to BIBDs for all experimental settings where no set of admissible parameters exists.

Journal of Statistical Planning and Inference

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the closest possible", ensure the context clearly defines what 'closeness' refers to, whether it's physical proximity, similarity in characteristics, or accuracy in representation.

Common error

Avoid using "the closest possible" in situations where the type of 'closeness' isn't clear. Instead, specify what kind of approximation or proximity you're aiming for, such as "the most accurate estimate" or "the nearest physical location".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the closest possible" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate the highest degree of proximity or similarity achievable. Ludwig provides examples in various contexts, showcasing its flexibility and wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the closest possible" is a versatile adjective phrase used to emphasize the greatest degree of proximity or similarity attainable. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and frequently used in various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific research. While grammatically sound, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly defines what 'closeness' refers to, avoiding vague or ambiguous applications. Consider alternatives like "the nearest achievable" or "the best approximation" based on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the nearest achievable

Focuses on practicality and feasibility, implying something that can be realistically attained.

the most proximate

Emphasizes spatial nearness, suitable when physical distance is the key factor.

the best approximation

Highlights the idea of resemblance and accuracy, rather than strict closeness.

the most similar

Shifts the focus to likeness in attributes or characteristics.

the most faithful representation

Stresses accuracy and adherence to an original source or model.

the smallest margin of error

Highlights the accuracy in measurement or prediction.

the utmost immediacy

Stresses the lack of physical and temporal distance.

the most intimately

Suggests a depth of connection or knowledge, not just surface proximity.

the uttermost proximity

Underlines the superlative degree of nearness.

the greatest adjacency

Highlights the bordering relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "the closest possible" in a sentence?

Use "the closest possible" to describe a situation where you are trying to get as near as possible to something. For example: "We need to get "the closest possible" match to the original design."

What is a good alternative to "the closest possible"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives such as "the nearest achievable", "the best approximation", or "the most proximate".

When is it appropriate to use "the closest possible"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that you are aiming for the greatest degree of proximity, similarity, or accuracy that is attainable in a given situation. This is suitable in various contexts, such as scientific measurements, design specifications, or relationship goals.

What's the difference between "the closest possible" and "the nearest possible"?

While both convey a sense of proximity, "the closest possible" can refer to abstract concepts like similarity or approximation, whereas "the nearest possible" is more typically used in the context of physical distance.