Confused Words: Close, Near & Nearby

Hey there, learners! Our topic for today revolves around the commonly confused words: “Close”, “Near”, and “Nearby”. Though these words seem synonymous, their usage differs subtly. Let’s break it down!

Close

“Close” (IPA: /kloʊs/) generally indicates a short distance or a small gap between two things or people. It can refer to both physical and metaphorical proximity.

Here are 10 examples:

1. The school is close to my house. (Short physical distance)
2. We are close friends. (Strong emotional bond)
3. The bus stop is close; you can walk there. (Within walking distance)
4. The results were close. (Similar outcomes)
5. The hotel is close to the beach. (Near a location)
6. His birthday is close. (Soon to occur)
7. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. (Maintain relationships)
8. The supermarket is close by. (Nearby)
9. The shops are close today. (Not open)
10. We are close to finishing the project. (Almost done)

Near

“Near” (IPA: /nɪər/) refers to a short distance in space or time. It can be used as a preposition, an adverb, or an adjective.

Here are 10 examples:

1. The restaurant is near the park. (Close in location)
2. We are near the end of the movie. (Almost finished)
3. The deadline is near. (Soon to occur)
4. I live near the city center. (Close in location)
5. There is a bakery near here. (Close in proximity)
6. My office is near the train station. (Short distance)
7. There’s a bank near my house. (Nearby location)
8. The end is near. (Almost happening)
9. The beach is near. (Close distance)
10. Keep near the guide during the tour. (Stay close)

Nearby

“Nearby” (IPA: /ˌnɪərˈbaɪ/) is an adjective or adverb that means ‘not far away’. It does not need a preposition when used as an adverb.

Here are 10 examples:

1. There is a café nearby. (In the vicinity)
2. Do you know any nearby restaurants? (In the vicinity)
3. The nearby houses were also affected. (Close in location)
4. We decided to explore the nearby park. (In the vicinity)
5. There’s a nearby bus stop. (Not far away)
6. They live in a nearby town. (Close in location)
7. She parked in a nearby parking lot. (Not far away)
8. The nearby stores are closed. (In the vicinity)
9. Can we find a nearby hotel? (In the vicinity)
10. There’s a nearby supermarket where we can buy food. (Not far away)

Conclusion

In a nutshell, “Close” implies a short distance or gap, “Near” refers to a short distance in space or time, and “Nearby” means not far away or in the vicinity. These distinctions are subtle, yet they can significantly enhance your English communication skills. Keep practicing!