near - near by - close

confusing!
KEEP IT SIMPLE

In everyday, spoken English, just learn how to use "near". 
Don't spend a lot of time trying to understand these three words for normal, everyday conversation.
​
Just use NEAR!

Now, if you are preparing for academic study, then you will need to understand how to use these three words. 
near
I live near McDonald's.  correct
​
I live near to McDonald's.   incorrect

You can say "near to", but it's wrong, but you will be understood.

You can say "next to". 

McDonald's is next to my house.

​It just gets more confusing!
close to
I live close to McDonalds.   correct
​
I live close McDonalds.   incorrect
You can say "close to", but don't use "near to".   
You say "close to", but don't say only "close". 
You live "close to" + a place 
or, you are "close to"  + verb (doing something)
nearby
  • "Near to" is not correct but you will be understood.​
​​
  • "Near to" is used in some situations dealing with time, but is seldom used.

  • "I work nearby."  = "I work close to here"  = "I work near here."  
​​
  • ​I live near Citibank on Park Avenue. = I live close to Citibank on Park Avenue.
close to + verb + ing
  • I'm close to buying a new computer.

  • Bill is close to getting that new job in Silicon Valley.

  • I'm nowhere near being close to retiring!
NOTE: 
opposite of near