Confused Words: Close vs. Shut

Hey there! Let’s dive into the world of English words, where sometimes, even the simplest of words can get a little tricky. Today we’re talking about the words “Close” and “Shut“. While both mean to move something so that an opening or passage is blocked, their usage differs a bit.

Close /kləʊz/

Close” implies moving together two parts which are hinged or otherwise able to move, often with a gentle action or sound. Here are 10 examples:

1. Please close the door quietly. (Gently move the door to its frame)
2. Can you close the window? It’s getting cold. (Push the window so that it blocks the opening)
3. Close your eyes and make a wish. (Shut your eyelids)
4. We should close the deal today. (Finalize the deal)
5. Close the box carefully. (Place the lid on the box)
6. I forgot to close my umbrella. (Collapse the umbrella)
7. Can you close the curtain? (Draw the curtains together)
8. He closed his laptop and left the room. (Folded down the screen of the laptop)
9. The bank will close at 4 PM. (Cease its operations for the day)
10. Close your book when finished. (Shut the book’s cover)

Shut /ʃʌt/

Shut“, on the other hand, implies a more forceful action and is more often used with things like doors or lids. Here are 10 examples:

1. She shut the door with a bang. (Forcefully closed the door)
2. Shut the window, it’s raining. (Push the window to block the opening)
3. I accidentally shut my finger in the drawer. (Trapped my finger by forcefully closing the drawer)
4. He shut his eyes against the bright light. (Closed his eyes tightly)
5. The store will shut down for renovation. (Cease operations for refurbishment)
6. She shut the suitcase after packing. (Forcefully closed the suitcase)
7. Shut the gate when you leave. (Close the gate securely)
8. He shut the lid of the jar tightly. (Put the lid on securely)
9. The school shut for the holidays. (Closed for a break)
10. The alarm will shut off automatically. (Stop functioning)

Conclusion

So, to wrap up, while both “close” and “shut” involve moving something to block an opening or passage, “close” often implies a gentler action, while “shut” suggests a more forceful action. By understanding these nuances, you’ll be able to use these words more effectively in your daily conversations!