What are the definitions of “close in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Surround, envelop.
The fog CLOSED IN and we couldn't see two yards in front of us.
- 2Approach, get near.
The police were CLOSING IN so they decided to try to make a break.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “close in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb close in is to surround or envelop something or someone. It can be used to describe a situation where something, like fog or darkness, makes it difficult to see or move. It can also be used when people or objects are getting closer and surrounding someone or something.
What are the different verb forms of “close in”?
| Root Verb | close in |
| Third Person Singular Present | closes in |
| Present Participle | closing in |
| Simple Past | closed in |
| Past Participle | closed in |
Example
The darkness closed in as the sun set.
Example
The fog closes in quickly in the mountains.
Example
The police are closing in on the suspect.
Example
The walls closed in on him in his nightmare.
Example
The enemy had closed in on all sides.
What kind of phrasal verb is “close in”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“close in” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The fog closed in quickly.
Example
The police closed in on the suspect.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“close in” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The fog closed in quickly.
Example
The police closed in on the suspect.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “close in”?
Good things to know
Does “close in” have an informal or formal tone?
Close in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or speech, depending on the specific context.
