as you sail about the isle, when you come pretty nigh the shore, you will see the water breaking off from those points; which you must give a berth to and avoid them.
William Dampier. A Voyage to New Holland, Etc. in the Year 1699
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it will be seen that in Newspeak the expression of unorthodox opinions, above a very low level, was well—nigh impossible.
George Orwell. 1984 (1949)
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even if I was forced to halt here nigh two hours, that'll do.