cheek by jowl

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cheek by jowl

The old houses stand cheek by jowl along the narrow lane.

Definition

Adverb 1. In very close proximity; side by side, often in a crowded or intimate manner. - This phrase describes two or more things or people being positioned extremely close together, typically implying a lack of space or an intimate, sometimes uncomfortably close, association.

Usage

The phrase "cheek by jowl" is used to emphasize physical closeness, often in a context of crowding, intimacy, or direct juxtaposition. It can describe people, objects, or abstract concepts placed side-by-side. - It functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or an entire clause. - It often carries a connotation of being packed tightly together, sometimes suggesting that the closeness is notable, unavoidable, or striking.

Examples
  • The old tenement buildings stood cheek by jowl, with barely an alley between them.
  • In the crowded market, vendors worked cheek by jowl, their stalls overflowing into one another.
  • Wealth and poverty exist cheek by jowl in many major cities.
  • The two rival politicians were seated cheek by jowl at the head table, making for an awkward dinner.
Advanced Usage
  • Figurative Use: The phrase can be used figuratively to describe the close coexistence of contrasting or incongruous elements (e.g., modern and traditional, rich and poor).
    • The museum's exhibition places Renaissance masterpieces cheek by jowl with contemporary installations.
Variants and Related Words
  • Side by side: A more neutral synonym for being next to each other, without the strong connotation of crowding.
  • In close quarters: Emphasizes being in a confined space together.
  • Check-by-jowl: An occasional, less common spelling variant.
Synonyms
  • Side by side
  • Close together
  • Shoulder to shoulder
  • In close proximity
  • Packed together
Antonyms
  • Far apart
  • At a distance
  • Separated
  • Widely spaced
Related Idioms
  • Rub shoulders with: To mix or associate closely with a particular group of people.
    • While this idiom implies social closeness, "cheek by jowl" more strongly emphasizes physical proximity.
cheek by jowl

The old houses stand cheek by jowl along the narrow lane.

Adverb
  1. in close proximity
    • the houses were jumbled together cheek by jowl