Nearby Meaning

UK /ˈnɪəbaɪ/
US /ˈnɪərbaɪ/
Word Definition
nearby meaning

Nearby Definition & Usage

adjective

Located close by or at a short distance from a reference point.

Examples

  • "There's a cafe nearby if you want to grab a coffee."
  • "We live in a nearby neighborhood, so we can walk there in five minutes."
  • "The library is nearby, just down the street."
  • "You can park your car nearby, but the spots fill up quickly."
  • "I think there's a park nearby where we can take the kids."
adverb

In the area or in close proximity to a given location or object.

Examples

  • "The nearest bus stop is nearby, just a few steps away."
  • "I’ll be nearby if you need any help with your luggage."
  • "A small shop selling groceries is nearby, in the corner of the street."
  • "Is there a restroom nearby? I really need to use it."
  • "Don't worry, I’ll stay nearby in case you need anything."

Cultural Context

The word 'nearby' originates from Old English, derived from the combination of 'near' and the suffix '-by,' meaning 'near' or 'at a short distance.' It is used commonly in daily conversations when referring to locations, spaces, or places within a short range from a reference point.

The Adventure of the Nearby Forest

Story

The Adventure of the Nearby Forest

One bright Saturday morning, Sarah and her brother Tom decided to explore the nearby forest. They had heard rumors of a hidden glade, filled with colorful flowers and a small creek that sparkled in the sunlight. As they walked down the familiar path, the tall trees loomed overhead, and the scent of fresh pine filled the air. Sarah, being the more adventurous of the two, urged Tom to move faster, but Tom was always a little cautious when it came to exploring new places. 'I know the forest is nearby,' Tom said, 'but what if we get lost?' Sarah smiled. 'Don’t worry, it’s just a short walk from here.' Their destination was just a few minutes away, but it felt like a whole new world. The deeper they went into the woods, the more the noise of the town faded, replaced by the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves. Soon, they reached a clearing where the sun streamed through the branches, casting a golden glow on the ground. 'We made it,' Sarah said, breathing in the fresh, crisp air. The glade was more beautiful than they had imagined, with wildflowers blooming everywhere and a small stream running through the middle. They sat down on a large rock near the creek, their laughter echoing through the peaceful forest. Later, as they made their way back home, Tom felt a sense of accomplishment. 'I never realized how nearby adventure can be,' he said with a smile. 'Sometimes the best things are just a short walk away.' Sarah nodded. 'Exactly. There’s so much to explore, and it’s all so nearby.' As they returned to the town, Tom couldn't help but feel grateful for their spontaneous adventure. The forest had seemed like a distant world, but in reality, it had been just around the corner. Sarah's love for exploration and Tom's initial hesitation had both led to a wonderful discovery—one that was, indeed, nearby all along.

The Adventure of the Nearby Forest