nært

Nært is a Norwegian word used as an adjective and an adverb with the sense of closeness or proximity. In everyday language it describes physical closeness as well as figurative closeness, such as personal relationships or emotional intensity.

As an attributive adjective, nært typically appears before a neuter noun in the singular form (for example, et nært forhold or et nært vennskap). It can also function predicatively with the verb være in expressions like forholdet er nært. The word is closely related to nær, the base form meaning near or close, and it commonly appears in phrases that emphasize intimacy or proximity.

In usage, nært is frequent in both concrete and abstract contexts. Common collocations include nært forhold (a close relationship), nært vennskap (a close friendship), and nært til hjertet (close to the heart). The phrase nært og kjært is an established idiom meaning “near and dear,” used to describe cherished people or things.

Etymology and related languages: nært derives from the same Germanic root as the English word near, with cognates in other Scandinavian languages. The form varies across dialects and inflection, but the core meaning remains consistent: proximity in space, time, or affection, often signaling a strong connection rather than mere distance.

See also: near, proximity, Danish nær, Swedish nära.