Translation guide
To approach or come closer in space, time, or relationship. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is approaching and the context.
To move closer to a person, place, or object in physical space.
General verb for approaching or getting near. Intransitive; the subject is what draws near.
A typhoon is drawing near.
He slowly drew near.
To approach or come close, often implying intentional movement toward someone or something. Intransitive.
A dog drew near to me.
To draw near with a sense of urgency, pressure, or threat. Often used for deadlines, danger, or intense situations.
The deadline is drawing near.
The enemy drew near.
Formal or technical term for approaching, often used in news, weather reports, or military contexts.
A typhoon is drawing near Honshu.
To indicate that a point in time or an event is getting closer.
Also used for time and events. Very common.
Summer vacation is drawing near.
Emphasizes that a deadline or important event is imminent, often with pressure.
Adverb meaning 'soon' or 'before long', often used to say something is drawing near in time.
To become closer in a relationship or emotional bond.
To approach God or a higher power in a religious or spiritual sense.
Used in religious contexts to mean drawing near to God.
Draw near to God through prayer.
近づく is the most general and neutral. 近寄る often implies intentional movement toward a person or animal. 迫る carries a sense of urgency, pressure, or threat, and is common for deadlines, danger, or intense approach.
Spring draws near.
A child draws near to their mother.
Danger draws near.
While 近づく can be used for emotional closeness, 親しくなる or 距離が縮まる are more natural for personal relationships. 近づく alone might sound physical or literal.
The exam is drawing near.
もうすぐ春ですね。
Spring is drawing near, isn't it?
Traveling together drew us near.