Idiomatic expression: close proximity

[Conchita Mastrajani]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #85 "Simple Present (2)", question 5

But you must remember that two years ago the two main characters hadn't met, which was surprising when you consider the close ......... of Andrew's cottage and Sally's.

(a) approximation
(b) proximity
(c) standing
(d) placing

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #85 "Simple Present (2)", answer 5

But you must remember that two years ago the two main characters hadn't met, which was surprising when you consider the close proximity of Andrew's cottage and Sally's.

Correct answer: (b) proximity
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Isn't 'close proximity' a redundancy, or is it an idiomatic expression?

Thank you and
merry Christmas!

Conchita

[Mister Micawber]

Yes, you are right on both counts, Conchita-- it is redundant, and it is a fixed expression. There are many of these in the language, and they are used for stress: a large fortune, aid and abet, etc.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber

[Conchita]

Thank you for your prompt reply. I'm new here and not at all used to getting such a quick reaction (we normally go at a slower pace in Spain!), never mind one at all. On top of this I've learned a new expression: aid and abet.

[Ahmadov]

1) To me "when you consider the close proximity of the cottage of Andrew and Sally" sounds more natural.

2) "Tautology" is another good word for "redundancy"

[Alan]

[Ahmadov]

WOW, what a good point! I really missed that...
Hmmmm, however, doesn't this imply that there are two cottages when you speak about proximity? Well, I am not arguing, it is your native language and you have been teaching this language for many years, but cann't this argument change your mind?
Thanks

[Ahmadov]

...or how about "the close proximity of Andrew's and Sally's cottages"?

[Alan]

Hi,

To be honest, I'm quite happy with what I wrote in the first place:

the close ......... of Andrew's cottage and Sally's.

Alan
_________________
English as a Foreign Language
You can read my EFL story A spring in your step

[Guest]

Hello Alan,

I think it is becoming clearer to me why you prefer that version.
Thank you for being patient.

Zahir Ahmadov