Near vs Nearly: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
The word "near" means 'close,' while "nearly" is used to mean 'almost.
Memory Tip: near = close by, nearly = almost there
near has long /iː/, nearly has /ɪ/ sound
near /nɪr/
prepositionClose to someone or something in distance.
Example:
If you stand near the window, you will feel the cool breeze coming in.
Common patterns:
near the house
near the school
nearly /ˈnɪrli/
adverbAlmost or not quite completely.
Example:
I have nearly finished reading the book, so I can lend it to you tomorrow.
Common patterns:
almost
not quite
Common Mistakes
We are nearly the park, let's walk the rest of the way.
We are near the park, let's walk the rest of the way.
The word 'near' is appropriate here because it indicates proximity to the park.
She is near finished with her homework.
She is nearly finished with her homework.
The word 'nearly' is appropriate here because it indicates that she is almost finished.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. If you stand ____ the window, you will feel the cool breeze coming in.
2. I have ____ finished reading the book, so I can lend it to you tomorrow.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse near / nearly again
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