B2adverb 2K

Closely

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈkləʊsli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈkləʊsli/"]/

Meaning of Closely

near in space or time

In simple words: near in distance or time

Closely in a sentence

• She examined the painting closely to notice every detail.
• They worked closely together to complete the project on time.
• He keeps his plans closely guarded to avoid unwanted attention.
• The two species are closely related, sharing many genetic traits.
• The detective was watching the suspect closely during the investigation.

How to use Closely

Used when describing actions done with great attention or proximity. Generally neutral, avoid in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

closely + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'close' and 'ly' for how tight you hold something.

Related words

Collocations with Closely

• look closely
• examine closely
• work closely
• watch closely
• follow closely

Synonyms for Closely

• intimately
• carefully
• attentively
• nearly
• exactly

Opposites of Closely

• distantly
• loosely

Common mistakes with Closely

• Using 'close' instead of 'closely' when describing how something is done.
• Confusing 'closely' with 'close' in terms of physical distance.
• Omitting the adverb form in descriptions.

Frequently asked questions about Closely

What does Closely mean?

near in distance or time

What is the definition of Closely?

near in space or time

How do you use Closely in a sentence?

She examined the painting closely to notice every detail.

Can you give another example of Closely?

They worked closely together to complete the project on time.

What are synonyms for Closely?

Common alternatives include intimately, carefully, attentively, nearly, exactly.

What is the opposite of Closely?

Opposite meanings include distantly, loosely.

What words go with Closely?

It commonly pairs with look closely, examine closely, work closely, watch closely, follow closely.

What are common mistakes when using Closely?

Using 'close' instead of 'closely' when describing how something is done. Confusing 'closely' with 'close' in terms of physical distance. Omitting the adverb form in descriptions.

How do you pronounce Closely?

US: /["/ˈkləʊsli/"]/, UK: /["/ˈkləʊsli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Closely?

Used when describing actions done with great attention or proximity. Generally neutral, avoid in very formal contexts.

What CEFR level is Closely?

"Closely" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.