Close Encounters of the Fashion Kind

Close vs. Clothes: Understanding the Difference

History of the Words

The word “close” comes from an Old English word “closan” which meant to shut. It often means to make something not open. On the other hand, “clothes” comes from an Old English word “clathas” that meant cloths. Clothes are what we wear to cover our bodies.

How to Use Them

“Close” is a verb or an adjective. As a verb, it means to shut something like a door or a book. As an adjective, it means something is nearby.

“Clothes” is a noun. It means items we wear like shirts, pants, and dresses.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember, “close” has only one “s” sound like in “shut,” and it can be a verb or adjective. “Clothes” has a “th” sound like in “things we wear,” and it is only a noun.

Example Sentences for “Close”

1. Please close the door before you go.
2. The bank will close at 5 PM.
3. She lives close to the park.
4. He needs to close his book and sleep.
5. Can you close my window, please?

Example Sentences for “Clothes”

1. Her clothes look very nice today.
2. I need new clothes for the winter.
3. He folded his clothes neatly.
4. My clothes are in the washing machine.
5. She loves shopping for clothes.

Summary

“Close” can mean shutting something or being nearby. Remember, “close” sounds like “shut” and can be used in different ways. “Clothes” are things we wear, and it is always a noun. By remembering their meanings and sounds, you can use them correctly.