this very closeness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this very closeness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the significance or impact of a particular closeness or intimacy in a given context. Example: "This very closeness between the two friends allowed them to share their deepest secrets without fear of judgment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But this very closeness makes progress harder.

The Economist

In real life it is often this very closeness that allows in-house lawyers to assist business (and indeed in many instances external lawyers) in performing the complex factual, legal and economic analysis required in "self-assessing" antitrust risks, as required by EU law.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But can that very closeness to the shrine lead to a sort of blindness?

The Guardian - Music

Still, the very closeness of the race between Mr. Lagos and Mr. Lavin, 46, marked a break from the past.

The New York Times

In this compelling study of how economic forces shape our cities, Glaeser explains that it is the very closeness of urban life, the opportunity for face-to-face interaction, that makes cities such dynamic and exciting spaces which continue to attract both the poor and the wealthy.

The Guardian - Books

For Conservative and Labour, the very closeness of the race means that they would rather be dull than bold.

BBC

But that very closeness has given rise to new dangers - dangers that cannot be contained within the borders of a country or by the distance of an ocean.

Huffington Post

In the end, in one of God's unforeseen paths, this election may point us all to a new common ground, for its very closeness can serve to remind us that we are one people with a shared history and a shared destiny.

The New York Times

Eight years later, when Bobby Kennedy debated Eugene McCarthy in the Democratic primary debates, their very closeness on the issues sent the really important message: that the contest was not between the old-style politics (Kennedy) and the new (McCarthy).

The New York Times

"This has been an extraordinary election," he said, "but in one of God's unforeseen paths, this belatedly broken impasse can point us all to a new common ground, for its very closeness can serve to remind us that we are one people with a shared history and a shared destiny".

The New York Times

This has been an extraordinary election, but in one of God's unforeseen paths, this belatedly broken impasse can point us all to a new common ground, for its very closeness can serve to remind us that we are one people with a shared history and a shared destiny.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this very closeness" to emphasize that a particular closeness is causing a specific outcome or consequence, whether positive or negative.

Common error

Avoid using "this very closeness" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or dramatic. Opt for simpler phrasing like "this closeness" or "their closeness" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this very closeness" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying and emphasizing a particular instance of closeness. As seen in Ludwig, it highlights the importance or impact of the described relationship. Ludwig AI says it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this very closeness" is a grammatically correct determiner phrase used to emphasize a specific instance of closeness or proximity. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, its frequency is relatively rare. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, where the emphasis on a relationship's significance is valuable. When writing, be mindful of the register and consider whether a simpler phrasing like "this closeness" would be more appropriate, particularly in informal settings. Alternatives such as "this particular intimacy" can also serve a similar purpose. The phrase is suitable for academic and professional writing but should align with the overall tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this particular intimacy

Emphasizes the specific nature of the intimacy.

this profound proximity

Highlights the depth and significance of the nearness.

this intense connection

Focuses on the strong bond or link between individuals or things.

this close relationship

Indicates a strong and affectionate bond.

this immediate proximity

Highlights the lack of distance between two or more things.

this inherent connectedness

Focuses on the natural state of being linked.

this shared affinity

Emphasizes the common interests and feelings that create closeness.

this tight bond

Highlights the strength and security of the connection.

this empathetic understanding

Focuses on the mutual comprehension and emotional closeness.

this united front

Emphasizes togetherness and solidarity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "this very closeness" to sound more natural?

Consider using "this close relationship", "this intense connection", or simply "this closeness" depending on the context. The "very" adds emphasis but isn't always necessary.

What does "this very closeness" imply that "this closeness" doesn't?

Adding "very" emphasizes the degree or significance of the closeness. It suggests that the closeness is particularly strong, meaningful, or impactful, and that this heightened state is relevant to the situation being described.

Is "this very closeness" appropriate for academic writing?

Yes, "this very closeness" is suitable for academic writing when you want to emphasize the specific and significant nature of a relationship or proximity. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and style of your writing and is not overly dramatic.

When should I avoid using "this very closeness"?

Avoid using "this very closeness" in informal settings or casual conversations. It can sound overly formal or even theatrical. Simpler phrases like "this proximity" or "this relationship" are more appropriate in those contexts.