# closely

/ˈkɫoʊsɫi/ (US) · /klˈəʊsli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/closely
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. with careful attention

adverb · CEFR B1

to look at or listen to something very carefully to see every detail.

For teachers: with intense focus and attention to detail; used when observing or monitoring a situation.

- If you look closely at the photo, you can see a bird in the tree.
- The security team monitored the crowd closely, looking for any signs of suspicious activity as the VIP arrived at the venue.

### 2. strong connection

adverb · CEFR B2

having a very direct or strong relationship with someone or something.

For teachers: denoting a strong or intimate connection, often regarding collaboration or causal relationships.

- The two companies work closely together on new technology projects.
- The researchers found that dietary habits were closely linked to the development of certain chronic conditions in the study group.

### 3. near in space or time

adverb · CEFR B2

near to something else, with very little space or time in between.

For teachers: in a position of physical proximity or occurring in rapid succession.

- The runner was followed closely by his rival during the final lap.
- The second explosion followed the first so closely that many witnesses initially thought they were a single event.

## Examples

- The doctor watches the patient's heart rate closely.
- The security team monitors the entrance closely to ensure that only authorized staff enter the building.
- By examining the brushstrokes closely, the art historian was able to determine that the painting was an original work rather than a later copy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.