we are getting closer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are getting closer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that progress is being made towards a goal or destination. Example: "As we continue to work on this project, we are getting closer to our deadline and achieving our objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But we are getting closer.

The Guardian

"Now we are getting closer".

The Guardian - Film

But we are getting closer and closer".

The New York Times

"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 United]," he said.

Independent

"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

"We are getting closer to solving the problem, but are not there yet," HSBC admitted.

Independent

So, yes, while we're not in Eggers territory yet, we are getting closer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are getting closer" to indicate incremental progress toward a specific objective, whether it's a physical location, a goal, or a solution.

Common error

Avoid using "we are getting closer" when the progress is minimal or uncertain. Ensure there's tangible evidence of advancement to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are getting closer" functions as a statement of progress or approximation. It indicates that a desired goal, location, or understanding is becoming more attainable. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used to convey a sense of advancing towards something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are getting closer" is a commonly used expression to indicate progress toward a goal, solution, or destination. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and versatile. It is most frequently found in News & Media sources, as well as in Scientific and Business contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's important to ensure tangible progress before using it to avoid overstatement. Alternative phrases, such as "we are approaching" or "we are making progress", can be used for subtle variations in meaning or formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are coming closer

Slightly redundant, but reinforces the idea of diminishing distance; less common.

we are approaching

This alternative uses a more direct verb to indicate nearing a destination or goal.

we are nearing

This option is similar to 'approaching' but can imply a more imminent arrival or completion.

we are drawing near

This phrase is slightly more formal and emphasizes the gradual reduction of distance.

we are making progress

This alternative focuses on the advancement being made rather than the proximity to a goal.

we are advancing

This suggests forward movement, typically towards a specific objective.

we are inching closer

This suggests slow but steady progress.

we are on the verge

This option indicates that something is about to happen or be achieved very soon.

we are on track

This implies that progress is being made according to a planned schedule or route.

we're almost there

Informal way of saying that the goal is within reach.

FAQs

What does "we are getting closer" mean?

It means progress is being made toward a specific goal or objective; the distance, whether literal or figurative, is decreasing.

What can I say instead of "we are getting closer"?

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

Is it correct to say "we are getting closer and closer"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and emphasizes the continuous progress being made. This intensifies the feeling that progress is steady and ongoing.

How formal is the phrase "we are getting closer"?

The phrase is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, in highly formal contexts, alternatives like "we are advancing" might be more appropriate.