we are getting close to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are getting close to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that you are approaching a particular point, goal, or deadline. Example: "As we finalize the project, we are getting close to our deadline for submission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

I think we are getting close to figuring out what a sport is.

The New Yorker

He added, "We are getting close to being a real contender for all things this year".

The New York Times - Sports

We are getting close to what might be called The Noah Scenario.

The Guardian

"I think we are getting close to creating a demand for it," Dr. Marcus said.

The New York Times - Tech

We are getting close to danger in our 70-year-old system.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The first thought was firecrackers because we are getting close to November and kids are buying firecrackers already".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

"We are getting closer to the truth," he said.

The New York Times

We are getting closer to Manchester United all the time".

The New York Times - Sports

"We are getting closer to some closure," he said.

The New York Times

"We are getting closer to a bear market," he said.

The New York Times

We are getting closer to that tipping point.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are getting close to" to indicate progress toward a specific, measurable goal. For example, "We are getting close to our fundraising target" is more effective than "We are doing well."

Common error

Be specific about what you are getting close to. Saying "We are getting close" without context leaves the audience wondering what the goal is.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are getting close to" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that the subject is approaching a particular state, goal, or event. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are getting close to" is a common and grammatically sound way to express nearing a particular goal, event, or state. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's versatile enough for various contexts, with a slightly higher presence in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure you are clear about what you are approaching to avoid vagueness. Alternative phrases such as "we are nearing" or "we are approaching" can be used for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are nearing

This alternative provides a more concise way to express the idea of approaching something.

we are approaching

This option emphasizes the act of coming nearer to a specific point or time.

we are coming closer to

Emphasizes a gradual reduction in distance, either literal or figurative.

we are drawing near to

Adds a slightly more formal or literary tone, indicating an impending arrival.

we are progressing toward

Focuses on the advancement in a particular direction or objective.

we are advancing toward

Implies forward movement towards a destination or goal.

we are on the verge of

Suggests being at the very edge of a significant change or event.

we are heading toward

Indicates direction and momentum in approaching something.

we are almost at

Directly indicates proximity to a physical or metaphorical location.

the time is fast approaching

Shifts focus to the rapid passage of time leading up to an event.

FAQs

What does "we are getting close to" mean?

The phrase "we are getting close to" means that you are approaching a specific point, goal, or deadline. It indicates progress and nearness to achieving something.

What can I say instead of "we are getting close to"?

You can use alternatives like "we are nearing", "we are approaching", or "we are almost at" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "we are getting close at"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "we are getting close" is "to". "We are getting close at" is grammatically incorrect. Always use "we are getting close to".

How formal is the phrase "we are getting close to"?

The phrase "we are getting close to" is suitable for most situations, including both formal and informal contexts. It is a neutral and widely understood expression.