close communion: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1 (low-frequency compound, specialized/formal register)Formal, technical (theological), literary.
Quick answer
What does “close communion” mean?
A theological practice of restricting participation in Holy Communion (the Eucharist/Lord's Supper) to members of the same denomination or those who meet specific doctrinal criteria.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A theological practice of restricting participation in Holy Communion (the Eucharist/Lord's Supper) to members of the same denomination or those who meet specific doctrinal criteria.
The phrase metaphorically describes any exclusive group or relationship characterized by strict rules of membership, intimate sharing, and a distinct boundary separating members from outsiders. This can apply to intellectual circles, professional guilds, or communities with shared, private beliefs.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The concept and term are used similarly in theological discourse in both regions, with no major lexical difference.
Connotations
In both varieties, the term is niche and carries strong connotations of religious exclusivity and traditionalism.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both regions, confined to specific religious or academic contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “close communion” in a Sentence
[Denomination/Church] + practices/observes + close communionThe policy/doctrine of + close communionTo be in + close communion with + [group]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “close communion” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The chapel close-communions, admitting only its confirmed members.
American English
- The congregation votes to close-communion, limiting the sacrament.
adverb
British English
- The table was administered close-communion style. (rare/awkward)
adjective
British English
- The close-communion tradition is deeply rooted here.
American English
- They are a close-communion church by doctrinal statement.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Could metaphorically describe a very exclusive partnership or joint venture with strict confidentiality agreements.
Academic
Used in religious studies, theology, sociology of religion, and history to describe specific ecclesiastical practices.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
Standard term in ecclesiology and denominational policy documents.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “close communion”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “close communion”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “close communion”
- Using 'closely communion' (adverb + noun) is incorrect. It is a compound noun phrase 'close communion'.
- Confusing with 'close communication'.
- Pronouncing 'close' as /kləʊz/ (the verb) instead of /kləʊs/ (the adjective).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in theological usage, 'close communion' and 'closed communion' are generally synonymous, both referring to the restrictive practice.
Yes, but it is a deliberate metaphorical extension, used in literary or academic contexts to describe any exclusive group sharing deep, private connections (e.g., 'a close communion of avant-garde artists').
The direct opposite in theological terms is 'open communion,' where participation in the Eucharist is offered to all baptized Christians or even all present, regardless of denominational affiliation.
Historically, 'close' functioned as an adjective meaning 'shut in, confined, restricted' (as in 'a close prisoner'). The term 'close communion' preserves this older adjectival sense, emphasizing the condition of being restricted or intimate, not just the act of closing.
A theological practice of restricting participation in Holy Communion (the Eucharist/Lord's Supper) to members of the same denomination or those who meet specific doctrinal criteria.
Close communion is usually formal, technical (theological), literary. in register.
Close communion: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkləʊs kəˈmjuːnɪən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkloʊs kəˈmjuːnjən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A close communion of minds”
- “To keep in close communion with (archaic/literary variant of 'close communion with')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CLOSED circle (CLOSE) of people intimately sharing a meal (COMMUNION). Only those inside the circle can participate.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPIRITUAL/KNOWLEDGE COMMUNITY IS A WALLED GARDEN (access is controlled, but inside there is shared nourishment).
Practice
Quiz
In a metaphorical, non-religious sense, 'close communion' best describes: