We very 'nearly' missed the plane. [=we came very close to missing the plane]
There's 'not nearly' enough flour for a cake here.
It's 'not nearly' as late as I thought it was.
(..) I tell you, infamous powers are at work. The instant you assign me to a case, the underworld hears about it, and I am set upon. Cato is in hospital. They nearly blew his little yellow skin off. It is amazing that I am still alive. Amazing is not the word. Do I detect something in your voice (..)1975 The Return of the Pink Panther
(..) Clouseau to Lugash. But, you see, he's no longer with the Sureté. I've just given him- Yes, but- Yes, but since France and Lugash have been allies for nearly years, it might be a serious mistake to send someone who is- I see. Yes, of course. Very good, Commissioner. It seems the Shah of Lugash (..)1975 The Return of the Pink Panther