étroitement

Étroitement is a French adverb that translates to "closely" or "tightly" in English. It is used to describe a relationship, connection, or proximity that is intimate, strong, or very near.

In terms of relationships, étroitement can indicate a close bond between people, such as a familial connection or a deep friendship. For example, "ils sont étroitement liés" means "they are closely related" or "they are closely connected." It can also describe the close collaboration between individuals or groups working together on a project.

When referring to physical proximity, étroitement suggests something is in very close contact or confined. For instance, "la porte est étroitement fermée" means "the door is tightly closed." It can also imply a lack of space or freedom, as in "les maisons sont construites étroitement les unes contre les autres."

The adverb is also employed in more abstract contexts. It can describe how two concepts or ideas are intertwined or dependent on each other, such as "la culture et l'économie sont étroitement liées" meaning "culture and economy are closely linked." In legal or technical contexts, it can denote a strict adherence to rules or specifications. The meaning of étroitement ultimately depends on the context in which it is used, but it consistently conveys a sense of closeness, intensity, or strictness.