The phrase "comes close" is spelled with the /kʌmz kləʊz/ pronunciation. This means that the first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, followed by a voiced "m" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound and a voiceless "s" sound, and the final syllable is pronounced with a short "o" sound and a voiced "z" sound. The spelling of this phrase reflects the individual sounds of the English language and allows for accurate pronunciation.
"Comes close" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a situation where something or someone almost reaches a particular level, standard, or achievement, although it may fall slightly short. This phrase signifies nearness or proximity to a desired outcome or goal without completely attaining it.
In various contexts, "comes close" can be used for measurement, estimation, or comparison. For instance, it can describe an individual who nearly accomplishes a task, but not entirely, demonstrating a significant degree of effort and achievement. Similarly, it can describe a thing or event that is almost on par with something else, indicating a striking similarity or resemblance.
The phrase can also depict the idea of approximation, suggesting that something is not an exact match but is very similar or comparable. It highlights the notion of coming within striking distance, being close enough to evoke a sense of familiarity, similarity, or adequacy.
"Comes close" often implies that while the result or outcome may not be perfect or identical, it demonstrates considerable proximity or similarity to the desired state. It conveys the concept of nearness or nearing a target, often serving as a measure of success, capability, or quality.
The phrase "comes close" is a combination of the verb "comes" derived from Old English "cuman", and the adjective "close" originating from Middle English.
The word "comes" ultimately comes from the Proto-Germanic word "kwemanan", meaning "to come" or "to arrive". It has cognates in various Germanic languages such as Old Saxon "cuman", Old High German "queman", and Old Norse "koma".
On the other hand, the word "close" traces back to the Middle English word "clos", which evolved from the Old French "clos" and Latin "clausus". It carries the meaning of "near" or "nearby" and can be related to the concept of being near or approaching something.