Phrasal verb
close on
Meanings
to move nearer to someone or something; to reduce the distance
to become very near in time; to approach a deadline or event
Definition
To get very near to someone or something, often by moving toward them or narrowing the distance.
“Close on” means to move closer to a person or thing until you are almost next to it, or to reduce the distance between you and it. It is often used for people, vehicles, animals, or groups that are approaching. It can also describe time, meaning something is nearly happening.
Examples
- I could hear the footsteps close on behind me in the hallway.
- You should slow down when you close on the car in front.
- He watched the dog close on the bouncing ball across the yard.
- We felt the deadline close on as the final edits piled up.
- They saw the storm clouds close on from the west over the hills.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse “close on” (get nearer) with “close down” (shut permanently) or “close in on” (surround or gradually catch).
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.