a smaller gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smaller gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the size of gaps, indicating that one gap is less wide or less significant than another. Example: "After the renovations, there was a smaller gap between the two walls, making the room feel cozier."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Wealth and incomes are distributed more evenly, with a smaller gap between rich and poor.

The Guardian - Opinion

Other recent polling appeared to support Singh and Kanagasooriam's thesis, although with a smaller gap.

The Guardian

Other polls showed a smaller gap, but Mr. Fenty knows he is scrambling for survival.

The New York Times

And with the difference in camp and school schedules, there might be a smaller gap before the end of the workday — too small to hire a sitter.

The New York Times

The final scores for the first round showed a smaller gap between Hollande and Sarkozy than first reported, but were still historic.

The Guardian

"Employees really do care about this issue, and a smaller gap makes for greater solidarity, and as a result better performance, throughout the workplace," Mackey wrote for the Harvard Business Review earlier this year.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

A small gap opened behind us.

The Guardian

It was a small gap and very hot work.

The Guardian

We approach a small gap between two metal barriers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Even a small gap can allow costly leaks.

The New York Times

It had two disks separated by a small gap, and suggested a dumbbell standing on end.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a smaller gap", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being compared. Providing specific measurements or benchmarks can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a smaller gap" when the actual gap is insignificant or negligible. Make sure the reduction in gap size is meaningful within the given context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smaller gap" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'smaller' acts as a comparative adjective modifying the noun 'gap'. This construction is used to describe a difference, interval, or space that is less extensive than another. As Ludwig confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a smaller gap" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a reduced difference, interval, or space. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It's common across news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clarifies the comparison and that the size reduction is meaningful. Alternatives like "a narrower divide" or "a reduced difference" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reduced difference

Highlights the diminished extent of dissimilarity between two things.

a closer margin

Indicates that the difference between two quantities or values is less.

a narrower divide

Emphasizes the reduced width of a separation or disagreement.

a diminished disparity

Highlights the lessening of inequality or difference.

a lessened gulf

Emphasizes the reduced width of a large separation or disagreement.

a decreased interval

Focuses on the shortened time or space between two points or events.

a tighter spread

Suggests that the range or distribution is more concentrated.

a constricted opening

Focuses on the narrowing of an entrance or passage.

a compressed space

Focuses on the reduction of physical or abstract area.

a truncated distance

Emphasizes that the extent or measure has been shortened.

FAQs

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

You can use "a smaller gap" to compare distances, differences, or intervals, for example: "After the update, there's "a smaller gap" between the rich and poor."

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

Alternatives include "a narrower divide", "a reduced difference", or "a closer margin", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a smallest gap"?

While grammatically understandable, "a smallest gap" is less common. It's generally better to use "the smallest gap" when referring to the absolute minimum distance.

How does "a smaller gap" compare to "a wider gap"?

"A smaller gap" indicates a reduced distance or difference, while "a wider gap" suggests the opposite—an increased distance or difference. Understanding the specific context is key.