Phrasal verb
close in
Meanings
To move nearer and begin to surround someone or something, reducing space or options.
To become more intense or threatening as it gets closer in time (e.g., a deadline or an event).
Definition
To close in means to come nearer or surround someone or something, often so escape or space becomes limited.
When something closes in, it moves closer and makes the space around someone or something feel smaller. It is often used for physical movement, like fog or crowds, and for pressure, like a deadline or worries. The idea is that you have less room, time, or freedom.
Examples
- The fog started to close in as we drove through the valley.
- I felt the walls close in when the elevator stopped between floors.
- The deadline is closing in, so she stayed after work to finish the report.
- As the crowd began to close in, they backed away toward the exit.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse close in (surround/approach) with close down (stop operating) and use the wrong verb.