Phrasal verb
close in on
Meanings
To move closer to a person or thing, especially in order to catch, surround, or reach it.
To become very near in time (for example, a deadline, event, or important moment).
Definition
To close in on someone or something means to move nearer and nearer until you are almost at the same place or you catch them.
To close in on someone or something is to get steadily closer in distance or time. It is often used when one person, vehicle, or animal is trying to catch another. It can also mean that a deadline or event is getting very near. The feeling is usually of pressure or urgency increasing.
Examples
- I could hear the footsteps close in on me as I hurried down the corridor.
- The rescue boat began to close in on the swimmers near the rocks.
- She watched the finish line close in on her as she ran the last stretch.
- They felt the deadline close in on them while they polished the presentation.
- The dog started to close in on the ball rolling across the grass.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "close in on" (approach or catch) with "close in" (surround or make a space smaller) and leave out "on" when an object is needed.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.