Translation guide
The English phrase "be close" can refer to physical proximity, emotional intimacy, or nearness in time or state. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
To describe something or someone being physically close in distance.
The most common adjective for physical closeness. Can be used for objects, places, or people.
The station is close from here.
His house is close to the school.
Emphasizes immediate proximity, like 'right nearby'.
The convenience store is right nearby.
Formal or technical term for 'approaching' or 'being in close proximity'.
A typhoon is approaching (is close).
To describe a close relationship between people.
Describes a close, friendly relationship. Often used for friends.
He is a close friend.
Common phrase meaning 'on good terms' or 'close'. Used for any close relationship.
Those two are close, aren't they?
More formal adjective for 'intimate' or 'close', often used in writing.
Build a close relationship.
Polite expression for being on close terms, often used in business contexts.
We have been close for many years.
To indicate that an event or state is imminent or nearly achieved.
Adverb meaning 'soon' or 'almost'. Used for events that are close in time.
Pattern meaning 'close to (a state)'. Attach to nouns.
It's close to completion.
Grammar pattern meaning 'about to do something', emphasizing imminence.
I'm about to go out (close to leaving).
To say something is similar or nearly the same.
Saying 「私たちは近いです」 to mean 'we are close' (emotionally) sounds unnatural. Use 親しい or 仲がいい instead.
We are close.
近い is for physical distance; 親しい is for emotional closeness. Do not mix them up.
We are very close.
兄弟なのにあまり仲が良くない。
Even though they're siblings, they aren't very close.
彼の意見は私の考えに近い。
His opinion is close to my thinking.