near (to)

Near can be used as a preposition. Near to is also possible with the same meaning, but is less common.

• We live near (to) the station.
• I put my bag down near (to) the door.
• She was near (to) despair.

Near (to) can be followed by an -ing form.

• I came very near (to) hitting him.

note

For -ing forms after to, (see here).

For the difference between nearest and next, (see here).