1 C1 formal
To approach from all sides and surround someone or something, typically in a threatening way (literary/formal).
"The shadows seemed to close in upon her as she walked deeper into the forest."
inseparable
close in upon
C1 formal inseparable transitive
A formal or literary variant of 'close in on': to approach and surround a target from all sides.
In plain English
When people or things slowly move in from every direction around something, like in a story or old-fashioned writing.
What does "close in upon" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic formal
Of an oppressive feeling or situation: to overwhelm someone gradually (literary/figurative).
"A sense of dread began to close in upon him as he read the final page of the letter."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To move ('close') inward ('in') specifically on top of or over ('upon') a target.
Actually means
When people or things slowly move in from every direction around something, like in a story or old-fashioned writing.
Usage tip
Archaic or literary register. Rarely encountered in modern everyday English. Found in 19th-century literature and formal prose. Learners should recognise it but use 'close in on' in practice.
Words that pair with "close in upon"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
enemy darkness forces pursuers walls sea
How to conjugate "close in upon"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
close in upon
I/you/we/they
3rd person
closes in upon
he/she/it
Past simple
closed in upon
yesterday
Past participle
closed in upon
have + pp
-ing form
closing in upon
continuous
Hear "close in upon" in the wild
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