Closing-in describes the act or process of becoming increasingly confined or restricted, whether physically, emotionally, or situationally. It can involve a gradual reduction of space, freedom, or options, creating a feeling of pressure, limitation, or an imminent threat. This sense of encirclement can be literal, like a physical space shrinking, or figurative, such as one's personal circumstances or opportunities becoming more constrained. The experience often evokes feelings of anxiety, claustrophobia, or desperation as escape routes appear to dwindle and external pressures intensify. The term suggests a narrowing of possibilities and an impending confrontation or resolution.
Closing-in meaning with examples
- The encroaching fog began to close in, obscuring the landmarks and intensifying the hikers' sense of isolation. Their visibility shrank with every passing minute and they felt a deep and growing anxiety, unsure of their direction.
- As the deadline approached, the project's requirements began to close in, leaving the team feeling overwhelmed and struggling to meet all the demands. They needed more time or more resources to complete the complex job.
- The detective knew the net was starting to close in on the suspect, as each piece of evidence presented at trial slowly tightened the noose around the man, as his alibi kept being proven false.
- The economic downturn began to close in on small businesses, forcing many to close their doors. Increasing costs for goods and services were making it nearly impossible to sustain, leaving owners with little hope.
- Feeling the walls close in, Sarah decided to leave her stressful job and seek a more balanced life. She knew that the constant pressure was negatively affecting her and making her unhappy.