NEXT TO Meaning and
Definition
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Next to is an idiomatic phrase and a preposition typically used to describe a physical position or location in relation to something else. It denotes proximity or closeness in terms of space or arrangement. When something is described as being next to another object or individual, it means that they are immediately adjacent or beside one another, with no space or object in between them. This phrase implies a direct and immediate relationship between two entities.
In a spatial context, next to signifies the state of being side by side or neighboring something. For instance, if two houses are built next to each other, it suggests that the houses stand immediately adjacent to one another without any gap or distance. Next to can also be used to convey the order or sequence of objects or entities. For example, in a line-up of people waiting for a bus, if someone says that John is standing next to Mary, it means that John is positioned right beside Mary in the line, either to her left or right.
Furthermore, next to can be understood in a metaphorical sense. In this context, it refers to the degree of closeness or importance of one thing in relation to another. For instance, if someone says that family is next to God, it means that family is considered to be of utmost importance or second only to God in one's life. Overall, next to conveys a sense of immediate presence and significance by illustrating physical adjacency or relative importance between two entities.
Common Misspellings for NEXT TO
Etymology of NEXT TO
"Next to" is a compound adverb phrase that originates from Old English. The word "next" dates back to the 12th century, derived from the Old English word "neahst" or "niehsta", which means "nearest" or "closest". The preposition "to" is also of Old English origin and signifies direction or position. Combining the two words, "next to" suggests proximity or adjacency.
Idioms with the word NEXT TO
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the next to last, at the last but one
The idiomatic expression "the next to last" or "at the last but one" refers to the item or position immediately preceding the final one in a series or sequence. It indicates that something is second to the final or penultimate in a given context, highlighting its proximity to the end.
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in next to no time
The idiom "in next to no time" means to do something very quickly, almost instantly, or in a very short amount of time.
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place next to
The idiomatic expression "place next to" refers to the act of positioning or arranging something or someone in close proximity to another thing or person. It implies the idea of putting or setting something or someone adjacent or nearby, often indicating physical closeness or immediate proximity.
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next to sm or sth
The idiom "next to someone or something" means to be in close proximity or right beside someone or something else. It suggests being very near, often physically, to a specific person or object.
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place sm or sth next to sm or sth
The idiom "place someone or something next to someone or something" means to position or arrange a person or thing in close proximity or alongside another person or thing.
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get next to
The idiom "get next to" typically means to establish or develop a close and friendly relationship with someone. It refers to getting close to someone emotionally, physically, or socially.
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Cleanliness is next to Godliness.
The idiom "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" means that maintaining cleanliness and being neat and tidy is considered a morally important virtue. It suggests that practicing cleanliness and good hygiene is closely connected to spiritual purity and godly virtues.
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next to nothing
The idiom "next to nothing" means almost nothing or a very small amount.
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pale beside/next to something
The idiom "pale beside/next to something" means to appear less impressive or important compared to something else. It is used to indicate that one thing or person does not come close to matching the quality, beauty, or significance of another.
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next to
The idiom "next to" means being very close to something or someone, usually physically. It can also imply being in a position immediately following something in a sequence or order.
Similar spelling words for NEXT TO
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