# nearest

/ˈnɪɹəst/ (US) · /nˈiəɹəst/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. closest in distance

adjective · CEFR A1

the one that is the shortest distance away.

For teachers: denoting the shortest physical distance from a specific location or person.

- Where is the nearest supermarket to this hotel?
- The hikers decided to head for the nearest shelter when they noticed the dark clouds gathering over the ridge.

### 2. closest in time

adjective · CEFR B1

the one that is coming soonest.

For teachers: referring to the point in time that is least distant from the present or a specified moment.

- The nearest available appointment is next Tuesday at ten.
- We must consider the nearest deadline before we begin planning the long-term phases of the project.

### 3. closest to a place

preposition · CEFR B1

used to describe being at the shortest distance to something.

For teachers: functioning as a superlative preposition to indicate the minimum spatial gap between two entities.

- He sat in the chair nearest the door so he could leave quickly.
- The table nearest the window offers the best view of the garden, though it can be quite chilly in the winter months.

## Examples

- Where is the nearest post office?
- The driver pulled over at the nearest petrol station because the fuel light started flashing.
- In an emergency, you should proceed calmly to the nearest exit and wait for further instructions from the safety marshals.

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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.