What are the definitions of “close in on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Get near someone.
The police were CLOSING IN ON the gang.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “close in on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb close in on is to get nearer to someone or something, often with the intention of catching or reaching them. It is often used when talking about police or other authorities trying to catch criminals or suspects.
What are the different verb forms of “close in on”?
| Root Verb | close in on |
| Third Person Singular Present | closes in on |
| Present Participle | closing in on |
| Simple Past | closed in on |
| Past Participle | closed in on |
Example
The police were closing in on the suspect.
Example
The detective closes in on the criminal.
Example
The officers are closing in on the thief.
Example
The authorities closed in on the gang last night.
Example
The police had closed in on the suspect before he could escape.
What kind of phrasal verb is “close in on”?
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 on” 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 police were closing in on the gang.
Example
The detective closed in on the criminal.
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 on” 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 police were closing in on the gang.
Example
The detective closed in on the criminal.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “close in on”?
Good things to know
Does “close in on” have an informal or formal tone?
Close in on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, news reports, and professional settings.
