nearly vs “close to”

Both "nearly" and "close to" are correct and commonly used to indicate proximity or a small difference. They can be used interchangeably in many contexts.

Last updated: April 01, 2024 • 765 views

The word "nearly" is correct and commonly used to indicate proximity or a small difference.

"nearly"

It is used to show that something is close to a particular state or condition, but not completely there.

Examples:

She nearly missed the bus.
The project is nearly complete.
He nearly fell off the ladder.
I nearly forgot your birthday.
The store is nearly out of stock.

Show examples from the web [+]

Your economy cuts nearly poisoned half of Locksley village.
They made their traffickers nearly four million dollars.
Construction started nearly 40 years ago.
Its crimes against mankind began nearly 2000 years ago.
Chloe, those files contain details of nearly every operation.
Linear polyethylene is nearly 100% crystalline.
Blissing one human nearly killed you.
We helped catch nearly a dozen killers.
Our community service is nearly over.
The transition facility is nearly complete.
I nearly bought a wedding dress once.
Your instincts nearly cost us everything.
Our planet was devastated, our civilization nearly destroyed.
My first Labor nearly killed me.
Thirty-five weeks is nearly full-term for twins.
Your elbow nearly killed the lift.
This drunk nearly killed my friend.
Driscoll has worked on nearly 200 properties.
Detective Castillo, your incompetence nearly cost us the Orion investigation.
We nearly lost control of them.

Alternatives:

almost
practically
virtually
just about
all but

The phrase "close to" is correct and commonly used to indicate proximity or a small difference.

"“close to”"

It is used to show that something is near or similar to a particular state or condition.

Examples:

The temperature is close to freezing.
She is close to achieving her goal.
The company is close to bankruptcy.
The colors are close to matching.
The exam scores are close to each other.

Show examples from the web [+]

Ecofin ministers have a clear understanding of what is "close to" and "temporary".
Indeed, the document approved by Ecofin and by the European Council makes it clear that any deficit above 3 per cent, to be justified by relevant factors and by exceptional circumstances, has to be "close to" the 3 per cent and "temporary".
Synonym for "close-to" - synonyms and words
The TRYP Higienópolis is "close to everything".
The inn is "far from everything", "close to nothing", in the middle of nowhere.
"Indeed" is close to "yes," right?
Under the motto "Close to home", they ensure friendly and professional care of elderly people and people in need of care.
Pizzeria "Bakra" - close to ferry, bus and train stations, pizza bread oven.
"Close to the sky" - Schweizer Illustrierte
Apparently someone "close to the family" went to the press.
It's so close to "gynecologist" which is disgusting.
Click "Close" to exit Print Preview.
Click "Close" to save your settings.
"smashing" is not close to "jackhammer."
Next on "Too Close to Home"...
HOTEL HEDERA is situated inside the scenic "Olives Bay" close to a beautiful, wide, pebble beach.
And "you're" close to non-compliance with procedural rules.
That's not even close to "Andre".
Automa is aware that, apart from keeping users updated with AutomaNews, the web site, articles on magazines, etc., it is important to have direct contact with their customers and to give them a reference point "close to home".
The "close to nature" riparian forests of the "Kalten" are distinguished by luscious growth. (Photo: A. Köck)

Alternatives:

near to
in proximity to
not far from
approaching
on the verge of

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

nearly vs “close to”

"nearly"

"“close to”"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text