The term "closes in" refers to the gradual narrowing or approaching of something. There are several synonyms for this term, including "encroaches", "constricts", "shrinks", "tightens", "narrows", "compresses", and "reduces". Each of these words has slight variations in their meaning, but all imply a sense of restriction or limitation. For example, "encroaches" suggests a slow and persistent invasion or infringement, while "constricts" indicates a tightening or squeezing action. "Shrinks" and "narrows" suggest a reduction in size or space, while "compresses" implies a pressing or crushing together. Overall, these synonyms offer a varied and nuanced vocabulary when describing the phenomenon of something closing in.