Close vs. Closed: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed & Dua Fatima || Published on March 20, 2024
"Close" refers to proximity or the act of shutting, whereas "Closed" denotes a state of being shut or not open for business.
Key Differences
"Close" can refer to a short distance or nearness in space, time, or relationship, suggesting something is nearby or intimate. On the other hand, "Closed" is primarily used to describe something that is not open, such as a door, a business, or an opportunity, indicating a complete or partial barrier to access.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
When used as a verb, "close" implies the action of bringing something to a position where it blocks an opening or coming to an end, like closing a book or closing a meeting. Whereas, "closed" as an adjective, implies a state or condition that has already been acted upon, such as a closed door, which has already been shut, or a closed discussion, where the matter is no longer open for debate.
Dua Fatima
Mar 20, 2024
"Close" can also function as an adjective, describing something that is near in distance or similar in nature, as in "a close resemblance." Conversely, "closed" can signify an environment or system that is sealed off from external influences, as in "a closed ecosystem," where energy and matter do not enter or leave the system.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
In terms of usage, "close" can vary significantly, serving as an adjective, verb, or adverb, reflecting proximity, the act of shutting, or the end of an event. "Closed," however, maintains a more consistent role as an adjective, denoting something that has been sealed, concluded, or is not operational.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 20, 2024
The choice between "close" and "closed" depends on the context and the message one wishes to convey. For example, saying a shop is "close" implies it is nearby, while saying it is "closed" indicates it is not open for business, reflecting the importance of understanding and using these terms correctly.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Usage in Sentences
"Stay close to me." "Close the door."
"The store is closed."
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
Related to
Proximity, end of action/event
State after an action, inaccessibility
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
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Close and Closed Definitions
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Closed
An internal or restricted system.
A closed loop system recycles its resources.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 06, 2024
Closed
Sealed or shut off.
Keep the door closed to maintain the temperature.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 06, 2024
Close
To stop, or fill up, as an opening; to shut; as, to close the eyes; to close a door.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 05, 2024
Closed
Shut down;
The airport is closed because of the weather
The many closed shops and factories made the town look deserted
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 05, 2024
Closed
Having boundaries; enclosed
A closed corridor between the two buildings.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 05, 2024
Close
To draw near
The orbiter closed with the space station in preparation for docking.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 05, 2024
Close
To move so that an opening is closed.
Close the door behind you when you leave.
Jim was listening to headphones with his eyes closed.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 05, 2024
Close
To bring to an end or period; to conclude; to complete; to finish; to end; to consummate; as, to close a bargain; to close a course of instruction.
One frugal supper did our studies close.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 05, 2024
Close
To come or gather around; to inclose; to encompass; to confine.
The depth closed me round about.
But now thou dost thyself immure and closeIn some one corner of a feeble heart.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 05, 2024
Close
The temporal end; the concluding time;
The stopping point of each round was signaled by a bell
The market was up at the finish
They were playing better at the close of the season
Hifza Nasir
Mar 05, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is the difference between "close" and "closed"?
"Close" refers to proximity or the act of shutting, while "closed" indicates a state of being shut or unavailable.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
How does "close" function as a verb?
As a verb, "close" means to bring something to a position so that it blocks an opening or to conclude something, like a meeting.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
How do you decide whether to use "close" or "closed"?
It depends on the context: "close" for proximity or the act of shutting, "closed" for a state of being shut or not operational.
Dua Fatima
Mar 20, 2024
Can "closed" indicate a permanent state?
It can, but it often depends on context. A "closed" shop might be temporary or permanent.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 20, 2024
What does it mean when a system is described as "closed"?
It means the system is sealed off from external influences, with no exchange of matter or energy with the surroundings.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
Does "close" imply intimacy?
Yes, it can imply a close relationship or tight-knit connection.
Dua Fatima
Mar 20, 2024
Can "closed" refer to something temporary?
Yes, like a "closed" road for construction, implying it will reopen.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
What is a "close call"?
It refers to a situation that nearly ended in a different, often worse, outcome.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
What implications does a "closed" attitude have?
It suggests unwillingness to consider new ideas or perspectives.
Dua Fatima
Mar 20, 2024
Is "closed" only used to describe physical objects?
No, "closed" can also refer to abstract concepts like discussions or attitudes.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
Can "close" be used as an adjective?
Yes, "close" can describe nearness or similarity, like in "a close match."
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
Can "close" and "closed" be used interchangeably?
No, their use depends on whether referring to proximity, an action, or a state.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
Can businesses be "close"?
In terms of proximity, yes, but if referring to operational status, "closed" is correct.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
What does "keep close" mean?
It means to stay near in distance or to maintain a close relationship.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 20, 2024
What does "close the gap" mean?
It means to reduce the difference or distance between two points or entities.
Dua Fatima
Mar 20, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Co-written by
Dua Fatima