What are the definitions of “close on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Get nearer.
She is CLOSING ON the leader of the race.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “close on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb close on is to get nearer or approach someone or something, usually in a competitive situation or a race. For example, it can mean catching up to someone who is ahead of you in a race or getting closer to a goal.
What are the different verb forms of “close on”?
| Root Verb | close on |
| Third Person Singular Present | closes on |
| Present Participle | closing on |
| Simple Past | closed on |
| Past Participle | closed on |
Example
The runner closes on the finish line.
Example
She closes on the leader of the race.
Example
He is closing on the car in front of him.
Example
Yesterday, they closed on the gap between them and the leading team.
Example
The distance between the two runners was closed on during the final lap.
What kind of phrasal verb is “close 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 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 runner closed on the finish line.
Example
She closed on the leader of the race.
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 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 runner closed on the finish line.
Example
She closed on the leader of the race.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “close on”?
Close on an opportunity
To seize or take advantage of a chance or opportunity.
Example
He closed on the job offer before it was too late.
Good things to know
Does “close on” have an informal or formal tone?
Close on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business negotiations or sports commentaries.
