Közelebb

Közelebb is a Hungarian adverb meaning closer or more near. It is the comparative form of közel, which denotes proximity. Közelebb is used to express increased closeness relative to another reference point, and it can appear in statements about physical distance as well as in imperative or figurative senses (for example, in commands to approach someone).

Etymology and grammar: közelebb is formed from közel with the comparative suffix -bb, following the general Hungarian pattern for comparatives. The base közel can function as both an adjective and an adverb, and közelebb preserves its adverbial usage, modifying verbs or phrases that indicate proximity. The word is typically used with a reference point introduced by a preposition such as van, mint, vagy a to well-formed comparisons, e.g., “A ház közelebb van a tóhoz, mint a kapu.” In comparative constructions, mint introduces the standard of comparison.

Usage and nuances: közelebb is commonly used to describe physical proximity, but it also appears in metaphorical or abstract contexts, such as approaching a goal. The related superlative legközelebb means “the closest” or, in certain contexts, “next time.” The imperative jöjj közelebb means “come closer.” In contrast to közelebb, the plain közel emphasizes a more general sense of closeness or nearness without a direct comparative frame.

See also: közel, legközelebb, közelítés, approaching in Hungarian.