Closely
/ˈkloʊs.li/
Definitions
4 meaningsAt a short distance; near.
/ˈkloʊs.li/
In a way that is near in space or time; near
The dog stayed closely beside its owner.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're standing right next to your best friend. You're standing closely! It means something is nearby.
👶 For kids: When things are very near to each other.
More Examples
The store is located closely to my house.
We were sitting closely together during the movie.
How It's Used
"They live closely to each other."
"The two houses stand closely."
With careful attention; meticulously or thoroughly.
/ˈkloʊs.li/
With careful attention; attentively.
The detective examined the crime scene closely.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to figure out a puzzle. You look at it closely, paying close attention to every detail.
👶 For kids: When you look at something very carefully!
More Examples
He followed the instructions closely to ensure success.
The teacher watched the students closely during the exam.
How It's Used
"She watched the presentation closely."
"The scientists examined the evidence closely."
In a way that involves strong emotional ties or a close connection.
/ˈkloʊs.li/
In a manner that is intimate, friendly, or connected by emotional ties
They worked closely together on the project.
💡 Simply: Think of your best friend or your family. You're closely connected to them because you care about each other.
👶 For kids: When you are very friendly or love someone or something a lot!
More Examples
The family is closely bonded.
The two countries are closely aligned in their goals.
How It's Used
"They are closely related."
"She is closely connected with her family."
In a similar or analogous manner.
/ˈkloʊs.li/
In a way that is similar or alike.
The two species are closely related.
💡 Simply: Imagine comparing two apples. If they look almost the same, you can say they're closely similar!
👶 For kids: When things are almost the same.
More Examples
The blueprints are closely similar.
The results of the two studies correlate closely.
How It's Used
"The two paintings are closely similar."
"The children resemble each other closely."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
closely guarded
Protected or kept secret with great care.
"The castle's secrets were closely guarded."
closely monitor
Observe or supervise closely
"The doctors closely monitored the patient's vital signs."
From Middle English *closly*, equivalent to close + -ly. 'Close' comes from Old French *clos* meaning 'enclosed, shut'.
The adverb 'closely' has been used since the 14th century, evolving from its early association with proximity to its modern uses in attention and emotional connection.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'close' and add the '-ly' to signify how near something is.
Word Origin
"enclosed, shut"