proximity
prok-SIHM-ih-tee
Proximity (noun) means the state of being near something in space, time, or relationship. Example: “Children thrive in close proximity to parks and open spaces.”
noun
1
The state of being near something in space, time, or relationship.
"Children thrive in close proximity to parks and open spaces."
"The proximity of the heat source allowed it to be detected by the sensor."
"The hotel's proximity to the airport made it a convenient choice."
"Their proximity in age made them close friends growing up."
"You and I live in close proximity."
How to use proximity
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHow close two things are to each other.
Common pairings
in close proximity
proximity to
proximity sensor
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Word forms
- Plural
- proximities
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Children thrive in close _____ to parks and open spaces.
Etymology
From Latin proximitas, from proximus, "nearest" — related to proximal and approximate.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for proximity
See all rhymes for proximity →Frequently asked questions
What does “proximity” mean?
The word “proximity” means the state of being near something in space, time, or relationship. In plain terms, how close two things are to each other.
How do you pronounce “proximity”?
“Proximity” is pronounced prok-SIHM-ih-tee (/pɹɑkˈsɪm.ɪ.ti/ in IPA).
How do you use “proximity” in a sentence?
Here is “proximity” used in a sentence: “The hotel's proximity to the airport made it a convenient choice.”
What part of speech is “proximity”?
“Proximity” is a noun.
Where does the word “proximity” come from?
The word “proximity” comes from Latin. From Latin proximitas, from proximus, "nearest" — related to proximal and approximate.
Is “proximity” a common word?
“Proximity” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between proximity and closeness?
Both refer to nearness, but proximity is more formal and usually describes physical or measurable distance, as in "the proximity of the school to the station." Closeness can mean physical nearness too, but it more often describes emotional or relational bonds, such as the closeness between friends.
What preposition goes with proximity?
Proximity is normally followed by "to," as in "the house's proximity to the beach." You may also see "in proximity to" and "in the proximity of," both of which mean near something.
Is the phrase 'in close proximity' redundant?
Some writers consider "in close proximity" redundant because proximity already implies nearness. It is widely used and accepted in everyday English, but in concise or formal writing you can often replace it simply with "close to" or "near."
When should you use proximity instead of nearness?
Proximity suits formal, technical, or written contexts and often refers to relationships in space or time, such as geographic proximity. Nearness is a plainer, more everyday word and can feel more natural in casual speech.
