What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nearer
Example
The store is nearer to my house than the mall. [nearer: comparative adjective]
Example
We are getting nearer to the end of the year. [nearer: adverb]
Example
My sister is nearer to me in age than my brother. [nearer: preposition]
closer
Example
The park is closer to my house than the beach. [closer: comparative adjective]
Example
The deadline is getting closer, so we need to work faster. [closer: adverb]
Example
I feel closer to my best friend than anyone else. [closer: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Closer is more commonly used than nearer in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nearer and closer?
Closer is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while nearer is typically associated with a more formal tone.
