Word
closeness
Phoneticsclose·ness, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkɫoʊsnɪs/
UK/klˈəʊznəs/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. a feeling of being very connected to someone or something. It can also mean that two things are very near each other in space or time.
n. the state of being near in space, time, or relationship. Refers to physical proximity or emotional intimacy.
Examples
“The closeness of their friendship is clear to everyone.”
“Despite living in different countries for a decade, the siblings maintained a remarkable emotional closeness through daily calls.”
“The urban planner noted that the closeness of the residential blocks to the industrial zone contributed significantly to the local noise pollution levels.”
Examples
simple
“The closeness of their friendship is clear to everyone.”
contextual
“Despite living in different countries for a decade, the siblings maintained a remarkable emotional closeness through daily calls.”
complex
“The urban planner noted that the closeness of the residential blocks to the industrial zone contributed significantly to the local noise pollution levels.”
Usage
Uncountable in its abstract sense; often takes the preposition 'to' ('closeness to the city').
Real-World Examples
“Image caption, The King said the tapestry was the 'best possible symbol' of the closeness between the UK and France.” “But for Johny, India’s growing closeness to Israel is beginning to come at a cost.” Etymology
From close + -ness.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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