Definition

Adverb: At a very short distance; from a position very near to the target or subject.

Usage

The phrase "at close range" describes an action performed or an event occurring from a position that is physically very near. It is most commonly used to describe shooting, observation, or examination.

Examples

• The photographer captured the bird's intricate feathers at close range.
• The witness saw the suspect at close range and could provide a detailed description.
• Even firing at close range, the inexperienced soldier missed the target.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: Can describe intense scrutiny or a very detailed, intimate perspective.
  • The documentary examines the life of the artist at close range.
• Prepositional Phrase: Often follows verbs like "see," "observe," "examine," "fire," or "shoot."

Variants and Related Words

• Close-up (noun/adjective): A photograph or film shot taken at close range; showing great detail.
  • The magazine featured a close-up of her face.
• Point-blank (adverb/adjective): (Of a shot, bullet, or remark) fired or delivered from very close to its target; direct and blunt.
  • He refused point-blank to answer the question.

Synonyms

• From nearby
• Up close
• At point-blank range (specifically for shooting)

Antonyms

• From a distance
• From afar
• At long range

Adverb

1. very close
   • without my reading glasses I can hardly see things close up
   • even firing at close range he missed