a gap between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a gap between" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a physical or figurative distance or difference between two items or concepts. For example, "There is a large gap between what we think is achievable and what is actually possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They rise to a gap between layers.

The New Yorker

You got a gap between your teeth?

The New Yorker

Right now, there is a gap between these two areas.

Harvard University

Why is there a gap between weather and climate forecasts?

Columbia University

He had a gap between his front teeth.

The New York Times - Magazine

Political analysts now notice a gap between professionals and managers.

The New York Times

It was a gap between winning and losing".

The New York Times - Sports

There's barely a gap between Brydon's impersonations this time around.

The Guardian - Film

Right now, there is a gap between these two things.

The New York Times

Why is there such a gap between many in the public and scientists?

University of California, Berkeley

Materials range from 1979 to 2011, with a gap between 1984 and 1992.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a gap between" to clearly indicate a tangible or intangible separation, difference, or interval between two distinct entities or concepts. Ensure that the context makes clear what those two entities are.

Common error

Avoid using "a gap between" without clearly specifying what is being separated. For instance, saying "There's a gap" is vague. Instead, specify: "There's "a gap between" expectations and reality."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gap between" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it's correct and usable in written English. It describes a separation, either physical or metaphorical.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

34%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a gap between" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a separation or difference between two things. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness. It's commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the elements being separated are clearly defined. Consider related phrases like "a divide between" or "a discrepancy between" for nuanced meanings. Remember to maintain clarity and context to avoid ambiguity. Top sources employing this phrase include The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difference between

A more general term for any point of unlikeness.

a space between

Refers to the physical or conceptual distance.

a divide between

Focuses more on separation or disagreement.

a disconnect between

Implies a lack of connection or understanding.

a distinction between

Emphasizes a clear and recognized difference.

a contrast between

Highlights the differences when comparing two things.

a discrepancy between

Highlights an inconsistency or contradiction.

a disparity between

Emphasizes inequality or difference in quantity or quality.

a gulf between

Suggests a wide and significant separation.

a chasm between

Indicates a profound and seemingly unbridgeable divide.

FAQs

How can I use "a gap between" in a sentence?

Use "a gap between" to show a difference or separation. For example: "There is "a gap between" the rich and the poor", or "Scientists are trying to bridge "a gap between" theory and practice".

What are some alternatives to "a gap between"?

You can use alternatives like "a divide between", "a discrepancy between", or "a difference between", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the gap between" instead of "a gap between"?

Both "a gap between" and "the gap between" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A gap between" refers to a general instance of separation, while "the gap between" refers to a specific, previously identified separation.

What's the difference between "a gap between" and "a difference between"?

"A gap between" emphasizes the space or separation, while "a difference between" /s/a+difference+between focuses on the dissimilar characteristics. The best choice depends on whether you want to highlight the separation itself or the nature of the differences.