What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
closest
Example
The closest grocery store is just around the corner. [closest: adjective]
Example
She is my closest friend, we share everything. [closest: adjective]
nearest
Example
The nearest bus stop is just a few blocks away. [nearest: adjective]
Example
I need to find the nearest gas station, my car is running out of fuel. [nearest: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nearest is more commonly used than closest in everyday language. Nearest is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while closest is less common and is often used in specific comparative situations or when emphasizing similarity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between closest and nearest?
Both closest and nearest can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, closest may have a slightly more formal tone when used in comparative situations or when emphasizing similarity.
