closely
UK: ˈkləʊsli | US: ˈkloʊsli
adv. in a close manner; with little space or time in between
adv. carefully or attentively
adv. intimately or familiarly
The word "closely" derives from the Middle English "close," meaning "near" or "tight," which itself comes from the Old French "clos" (closed, confined), rooted in the Latin "clausus" (shut, enclosed). The suffix "-ly," of Old English origin, transforms adjectives into adverbs, indicating manner or degree. Thus, "closely" originally described physical proximity but expanded to denote careful attention or intimate connection.
She listened closely to the instructions.
The two friends sat closely together on the bench.
He examined the document closely for errors.
The team worked closely to finish the project on time.
The detective followed the suspect closely.