prox·i·mate /ˈprɑksəmət/
  (a.)最近的,緊鄰的,近似的
  prox·i·mate /ˈprɑksəmət/ 形容詞
  近端,近側的,近基的,近軸的,近似的
  Prox·i·mate a.  Nearest; next immediately preceding or following. “Proximate ancestors.”
     The proximate natural causes of it [the deluge].   --T. Burnet.
  Proximate analysis Chem., an analysis which determines the proximate principles of any substance, as contrasted with an ultimate analysis.
  Proximate cause. (a) A cause which immediately precedes and produces the effect, as distinguished from the remote, mediate, or predisposing cause. --I. Watts. (b) That which in ordinary natural sequence produces a specific result, no independent disturbing agencies intervening.
  Proximate principle Physiol. Chem., one of a class of bodies existing ready formed in animal and vegetable tissues, and separable by chemical analysis, as albumin, sugar, collagen, fat, etc.
  Syn: -- Nearest; next; closest; immediate; direct.
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  proximate
       adj 1: closest in degree or order (space or time) especially in a
              chain of causes and effects; "news of his proximate
              arrival"; "interest in proximate rather than ultimate
              goals" [ant: ultimate]
       2: very close in space or time; "proximate words"; "proximate
          houses"