near

Definitions

1. adjective

   Close in space.

   Examples

   • I cannot see near objects well without my glasses.
   • Stay near me at all times.
   ≈close≠remote
2. adjective

   Close in time.

   Examples

   • The end is near.
   • We are getting near to Christmas.
3. adjective

   Closely related.

   Examples

   • The man had no near relatives.
   • She is a near relation of the family.
4. adjective

   Close and dear to you.

   Examples

   • It is a matter of near concern to me.
   • He stayed a near friend all my life.
5. adjective

   Very similar to the original.

   Examples

   • It is a version near to the original.
   • Her translation stays near to the original text.
6. adjective

   Narrowly escaping harm.

   Examples

   • It was a near escape.
   • It was a near miss when the car swerved.
7. adjective

   Almost, but not quite.

   Examples

   • The two words are near synonyms.
   • It was a near perfect performance.
   ≈nigh≈quasi-
8. adjective

   On the side of a vehicle closest to the curb.

   Examples

   • The near front wheel came loose.
   • He checked the near tire before setting off.
   ≠off
9. adjective

   On the left side of an animal or team.

   Examples

   • The farmer walked beside the near ox.
   • He led the near horse by its bridle.
10. adjective

    Short and direct.

    Examples

    • They took the nearest path through the woods.
    • He chose the nearest way to the town.