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Proximity

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. The state of being near or close to something in terms of distance or relationship.
2. A closeness in time or space, often used to describe physical or conceptual closeness.
3. The quality of being close to a particular condition, event, or point in a process.

History and Origin

The word “proximity” comes from the Latin proximus, meaning “nearest” or “next.” It entered the English language in the early 17th century, with its meaning rooted in the idea of closeness or nearness. Initially used to describe physical closeness, the term has since expanded to describe relationships, events, or states of being that are near each other in a broader sense.

Detailed Explanation

Proximity refers to nearness in terms of both physical distance and relational closeness. In physical contexts, it might refer to how close one object is to another. For example, two buildings standing next to each other would be in close proximity. Proximity can also describe emotional or relational closeness, such as when two people share a close friendship. In more abstract contexts, it can refer to the timing or sequence of events. Proximity is important in many fields, from urban planning (considering the proximity of amenities) to social interactions (such as proximity in relationships).

Example Sentences

1. The proximity of the airport to the city center makes it convenient for travelers.
2. Their emotional proximity allowed them to understand each other without words.
3. The school’s proximity to the park gives students a safe space for recess.
4. Proximity to the coast has made this town a popular spot for tourists.
5. The proximity of the deadline caused him a great deal of stress.
6. We moved into a house in close proximity to my workplace.
7. The proximity of the two rivals on the leaderboard made the competition more intense.
8. Due to the proximity of the event, she felt the pressure to perform well.
9. The proximity of the stars in the sky made it difficult to distinguish one from another.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Closeness – The state of being near or intimate, often used to describe both physical and emotional proximity.
2. Vicinity – The area or region near a particular place, indicating proximity in geographical terms.
3. Adjacency – The state of being next to or adjoining something, often used in physical or spatial contexts.
4. Nearness – A state of being close or nearby, used to describe both physical and abstract closeness.
5. Proximal – A term used in medical or scientific contexts to describe something located close to a particular point or reference.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Distance – The amount of space between two objects, often considered the opposite of proximity.
2. Location – The position or place where something is situated, often discussed in terms of proximity to other locations.
3. Closeness – A synonym for proximity, often used to describe both physical and emotional nearness.
4. Access – The ability to approach or reach something, often related to the proximity of resources or facilities.
5. Intimacy – A close and personal relationship, which can be considered a form of emotional proximity.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Nearby – Located at a short distance from something, indicating close proximity.
2. Immediacy – The quality of being immediate or urgent, often linked to the concept of proximity in time.
3. Contiguity – The state of being in contact or adjacent to something, commonly used in geographic or spatial contexts.
4. Nigh – An old-fashioned term meaning near or close, similar to proximity.
5. Closeness – Can refer to both physical and emotional proximity, especially in relationships.

Antonyms

1. Distance
2. Separation
3. Remoteness
4. Isolation
5. Distant