Phrasal verbs "close in upon" vs "close on"

Differences between close in upon and close on

Close in upon means to approach or surround someone or something closely, while close on means to come closer to achieving a goal or making a decision.

Meanings and Definitions: close in upon vs close on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Close in upon

  • 1Get near someone.

    The police were CLOSING IN UPON the gang.

Close on

  • 1Get nearer.

    She is CLOSING ON the leader of the race.

Usage Examples: close in upon, close on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

close in upon

Example

The detectives were closing in upon the suspect.

Example

The cat closes in upon the mouse, ready to pounce.

close on

Example

The runner closes on the finish line.

Example

She closes on the leader of the race.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Close in upon

To encircle or encompass someone or something from all sides.

Example

The police were able to surround the suspect and make an arrest.

To move towards a central point or location from different directions.

Example

The protesters planned to converge on the city center to demand political reform.

To gradually intrude or invade someone's space or territory.

Example

The new construction project will encroach upon the wildlife sanctuary and disrupt the ecosystem.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Close on

To move closer to making a choice or reaching a conclusion.

Example

After weeks of deliberation, the committee was finally approaching a decision on the new policy.

To be close to reaching an agreement or settlement.

Example

The two companies were nearing a deal on the merger after months of negotiations.

To focus or direct attention towards a specific target or objective.

Example

The marketing team decided to zero in on the younger demographic to increase sales.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in close in upon vs close on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: close in upon or close on?

Both phrases are used, but close on is more common in everyday conversation. It's often used in business contexts when discussing deals or negotiations. Close in upon is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations, such as describing the movement of troops or animals.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of close in upon and close on

Both phrases are relatively formal and are suitable for use in business or academic contexts. However, close on is more commonly used in these settings.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of close in upon and close on

The tone of close in upon is often more intense or dramatic, as it implies a physical or emotional closeness. On the other hand, close on has a more practical and goal-oriented tone, as it refers to achieving a specific outcome.

close in upon & close on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Close in upon

Synonyms

Antonyms

Close on

Synonyms

Antonyms

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