B2adjective1K

Nearby

UK /["/ˌnɪəˈbaɪ/"]/US /["/ˌnɪrˈbaɪ/"]/

Definition

near in position; not far away

In simple words: close to a place

Examples

  • Her mother lived in a nearby town.
  • There were complaints from nearby residents.

Usage notes

Used to describe something that is a short distance away. Appropriate in casual and formal contexts. Avoid in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'near' + 'by', like being close by.

Collocations

  • nearby attractions
  • nearby facilities
  • nearby stores

Synonyms

  • close
  • adjacent
  • proximate
  • surrounding

Antonyms

  • far
  • distant

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'close' or 'next' without recognizing distance nuances.
  • Using 'nearbys' as a plural, which is incorrect.