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.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[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"
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Learning is a sacred engagement.

[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
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Learning is a sacred engagement.

[Ahmadov]

...or how about "the close proximity of Andrew's and Sally's cottages"?
_________________
Learning is a sacred engagement.

[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
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English as a Foreign Language
You can read my EFL story Progressive Forms

[Guest]

Hello Alan,

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

Zahir Ahmadov

[Saneta]

But you must remember that two years ago the two main characters hadn't met...
why not: didn't meet?
or both are acceptable and why?
many thanks

[Mister Micawber]

'Didn't meet' refers to that one day 2 years ago: September 23rd, 2009.
'Hadn't met' refers to any time on or before that date.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's