Cool MateApproximate vs Close
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Approximate
Top 1,000 (very common)B1adjective
Close
Top 1,000 (very common)A1verb
| Approximate | Close | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/əˈprɒksɪmət/"]/🇺🇸 /["/əˈprɑːksɪmət/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/kləʊz/","/ˈkləʊzɪz/","/kləʊzd/","/ˈkləʊzɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/kləʊz/","/ˈkləʊzɪz/","/kləʊzd/","/ˈkləʊzɪŋ/"]/ |
| Meaning | To guess or estimate something closely. | To shut something, like a door or a window. |
| Example | an **approximate number/total/cost** | Please close the door before you leave. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | B1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | adjective | verb |
| Collocations | approximate value, approximate number, approximate location | firmly, tightly, gently, firmly, tightly, gently, permanently, temporarily, officially, to, permanently, temporarily, officially, to |
| Antonyms | exact, precise | open, start |
| Common mistakes | Confusing with 'approximation' - 'approximate' is a verb., Using it as a noun - 'approximate' should be used as a verb or adjective., Not pairing with an appropriate object - remember to specify what you are approximating. | Confusing 'close' with 'shut' – know when to use which., Using 'close' when referring to people (e.g., 'close the friend') instead of 'end' or 'finish'. |
| Usage notes | Use 'approximate' when you want to suggest an estimate rather than an exact number. It's suitable for academic and everyday contexts. Avoid using it in very casual conversations. | Use 'close' when talking about shutting physical objects like doors or books. It can also mean to finish something, such as a meeting. Avoid using it with people in most contexts, except in very informal conversations. |
Frequently asked questions: Approximate vs Close
What's the difference between Approximate and Close?
Approximate: To guess or estimate something closely. Close: To shut something, like a door or a window.
Are Approximate and Close the same CEFR level?
Approximate: B1, Close: A1 on the CEFR scale.
Can I use Approximate and Close interchangeably?
Not always. Approximate and Close are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.