What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intimacy
Example
The couple's intimacy grew stronger as they shared their deepest thoughts and feelings with each other. [intimacy: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of intimacy with her best friend, who knew her better than anyone else. [intimacy: noun]
closeness
Example
The siblings had a close relationship, always supporting each other through thick and thin. [closeness: noun]
Example
The closeness of the two buildings made it easy for the neighbors to interact with each other. [closeness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Closeness is more commonly used than intimacy in everyday language. Closeness is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while intimacy is less common and often associated with more serious or weighty relationships.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intimacy and closeness?
Both intimacy and closeness can be used in formal and informal contexts, but intimacy may be perceived as more formal due to its association with serious or weighty relationships.
