Closely means near in space, time, or relationship, or with careful attention to detail.

When you follow someone closely, you stay near them, keeping just a few steps behind. When two events happen closely together, one follows soon after the other. Friends who work closely might sit side by side, sharing ideas and helping each other succeed.

The word also describes watching or examining something with intense focus. A detective might examine evidence closely, noticing tiny details others might miss. When you read instructions closely, you pay careful attention to every word so you don't miss anything important. A teacher might watch a science experiment closely to see exactly what happens at each stage.

Closely can describe strong connections too. Two sisters might be closely related, sharing many traits and memories. Scientists might discover that two species are closely related, meaning they share a common ancestor. When things resemble each other closely, they're almost identical.

Whether describing physical distance, careful observation, or strong relationships, closely always suggests something or someone being near, connected, or examined with careful attention.