a slight gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small space or opening between two objects or surfaces. Example: "There was a slight gap between the door and the frame, allowing a draft to enter the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Then there was a slight gap until Ian from SW3 at 02 22.

The Guardian

He smiled — there is a slight gap between his front teeth — and we danced.

The New York Times

A slight gap between the contraption and the hull increases drag, which could be especially harmful in light air.

The New York Times - Sports

After he pulled some of the lighter concrete away and created a slight gap, he heard a voice.

The New Yorker

The articulating (meeting) surfaces of the femur and tibia condyles are very smooth and are separated by a slight gap.

Britannica

I am a 35-year-old woman with dark hair, a slight gap in my teeth and olive skin.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

That is, a previously slight gap in review scores for new grant applications from first-time and seasoned investigators widened in 2007 and 2008 [Jeremy] Berg [director of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences] says.

Forbes

You should have a very slight gap between your neck and your straight edge.

WikiHow

On a third, a line of light shines through the slight gap between two bare legs.

The New York Times - Arts

Lynam held his thumb and forefinger just a sliver apart, telling Van Horn that the slight gap was all that was separating his makes and his misses, a disappointing performance like Wednesday's and a good night like Saturday's.

The New York Times - Sports

There was a slight generation gap.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical specifications or precise measurements, quantify "a slight gap" with specific values (e.g., "a 0.1mm gap") for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a slight gap" repeatedly in close proximity within your writing. Vary your descriptions by using synonyms like "small opening" or "minor separation" to maintain reader engagement and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight gap" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its usage in describing physical spaces, differences in data, and even abstract concepts like understanding. It adds a descriptive element to the sentence by specifying the magnitude of the gap.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slight gap" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a small separation or difference. Ludwig AI indicates its applicability across various contexts, ranging from physical spaces to data analysis. While versatile, it's important to use the phrase judiciously and consider synonyms like "small opening" or "minor separation" for variety. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse audiences and writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small opening

Focuses on the opening itself, rather than the degree of separation.

a narrow space

Emphasizes the limited width of the space.

a minor separation

Highlights the act of separating and its insignificant degree.

a thin divide

Implies a division, but one that is not substantial.

a minimal difference

Shifts the focus to a difference in quantity or quality, rather than a physical space.

a negligible interval

Emphasizes that the interval is so small it's almost not there.

a hairline crack

Specific type of small gap, usually in a solid material.

a touch of space

Informal way of expressing a small amount of space.

a shade of difference

Highlights a nearly imperceptible distinction.

a fine margin

Suggests a delicate or precise difference.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slight gap" to describe a small space between two objects or surfaces. For example, "There was "a slight gap" between the door and the frame."

What can I say instead of "a slight gap"?

You can use alternatives like "a small opening", "a narrow space", or "a minor separation" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a slight gap" or "a small gap"?

Both "a slight gap" and "a small gap" are correct. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the subtlety (slight) or the size (small) of the gap.

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

"A slight gap" refers to a minimal separation, while "a significant gap" implies a substantial difference or separation. The antonym of "a slight gap" would be "a significant gap".