What is closely? Pronunciation and usage in English

closely means . Learn how to pronounce and use closely through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of closely

closelyadverb

/ˈkləʊsli/
Definition & pronunciation of closely

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "closely." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sounds:

  • cl: Pronounced like "cl" in "clock" – a clear, crisp /kl/ sound.
  • ose: This is where it gets a little tricky. It's pronounced like "oase" – like the word "oasis" but with a short "o" sound. Imagine saying "oh" very quickly and lightly.
  • ly: This is a common suffix, and it's pronounced like "lee."

2. Putting it Together:

So, you're saying: /ˈklōzli/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ˈklōz: (The ‘ˈ’ symbol means the first syllable is stressed - it’s emphasized.) Stress is on the "cloz" syllable.
  • lee: The "ly" simply adds the "lee" sound.

3. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "close-ly." This is the most common mistake. The "o" in "closely" is not like the "o" in "close." It’s a shorter, more open "o" sound.
  • Don't overemphasize the "o." It’s subtle.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

To summarize: Think "cloz-lee" and focus on that short, open "o" sound in the “ose” portion.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some practice words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word closely in English

Let's break down how to use the word "closely" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and uses. Here's a detailed look:

1. As an Adverb (Describing Manner - Very Important!)

This is the most common use of "closely." It means "in a careful and attentive way." Think of it as doing something with focus and attention to detail.

  • Examples:
    • "She closely watched the children play." (Meaning: She paid very close attention to them.)
    • "The detective closely examined the crime scene." (Meaning: He looked at everything carefully.)
    • "He closely followed the instructions." (Meaning: He paid very close attention to the steps.)
    • "They closely monitored the patient's condition." (Meaning: They were watching the patient very carefully.)

2. As a Preposition (Meaning "Near" or "Adjacent To")

Here, "closely" means "near" or "adjacent to." It describes something being physically close to something else.

  • Examples:
    • "The houses stood closely together." (Meaning: The houses were very near each other.)
    • "The trees grew closely packed." (Meaning: The trees were close together.)
    • "The suitcases were packed closely in the trunk." (Meaning: They were stacked near each other.)

3. "Closely Held" (Meaning Secret or Private)

Used with nouns like "secrets," "beliefs," or "information," "closely held" means kept private and not shared.

  • Examples:
    • "The company's financial data was closely held." (Meaning: The data was kept secret.)
    • "They shared closely held secrets about their past." (Meaning: They kept private secrets.)

4. "Closely Related" (Meaning Similar)

Used to describe things that are similar or connected.

  • Examples:
    • "These two theories are closely related." (Meaning: They're similar and have connections.)
    • “The two species are closely related evolutionarily.” (Meaning: They share a common ancestor).

Key Differences & How to Choose the Right Usage

  • Manner vs. Physical Proximity: This is the biggest distinction. Ask yourself: Am I describing how someone is doing something (manner), or am I describing their location (proximity)?

  • Context is Crucial: The surrounding words will usually make it clear which meaning is intended.

Tips for Using "Closely" Correctly:

  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms to help you choose the best wording:

    • For Manner: carefully, attentively, diligently, precisely
    • For Proximity: near, adjacent, next to

  • Don’t Overuse It: “Closely” can sound a little formal. Vary your vocabulary when possible.

Resources for Further Learning:

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "closely" in a specific context (e.g., writing, conversation)?
  • Help you practice using "closely" in a sentence?

Synonyms for the word closely

Practice with vocabulary closely

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The researchers examined the data __________ to identify any patterns.
  2. The two projects are __________ related and share many common goals.
  3. She stood __________ to the door, waiting for her friend to arrive.
  4. The manager paid __________ attention to the details of the report.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The team worked __________ to meet the tight deadline.
    a) closely
    b) nearly
    c) directly
    d) almost

  2. The company is __________ monitoring the market trends for any changes.
    a) closely
    b) nearly
    c) carefully
    d) hardly

  3. The two concepts are __________ connected and often discussed together.
    a) closely
    b) directly
    c) closely
    d) nearly

  4. The report was __________ analyzed to ensure accuracy.
    a) carefully
    b) tightly
    c) nearly
    d) closely

  5. The new policy will __________ impact our current workflow.
    a) directly
    b) closely
    c) nearly
    d) carefully

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She carefully reviewed the contract before signing.
    Rewrite: She reviewed the contract __________ before signing.

  2. Original: The two teams worked in a very connected manner.
    Rewrite: The two teams worked __________ together on the project.

  3. Original: The results were examined with great attention to detail.
    Rewrite: The results were __________ examined for accuracy.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. closely
  2. closely
  3. near
  4. close

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) closely
  2. a) closely
  3. a) closely
  4. d) closely
  5. a) directly

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She reviewed the contract closely before signing.
  2. The two teams worked closely together on the project.
  3. The results were meticulously examined for accuracy.

Comment ()