a wide gulf

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wide gulf" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant difference or separation between two things, such as ideas, opinions, or groups. Example: "There is a wide gulf between the two political parties, making it difficult to reach a consensus on important issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This would appear to be a wide gulf.

The New Yorker

But in college there was a wide gulf between George W. Bush and John Kerry.

The New York Times

The justices spoke at each other across a wide gulf of instinct and perception.

The New York Times

When the characters gather at center stage, they are surrounded by a wide gulf of darkness.

The New York Times

Both Bettman and Fehr have described the difference between the two sides in these negotiations as a "wide gulf".

The New York Times

If all Web sites were this beautiful, would there be such a wide gulf between "reading" and "e-reading"?

The New Yorker

Suddenly, there was a wide gulf between Emily's existence and mine, and I would never be able to cross it.

The New Yorker

Happy ending or no, there is still a wide gulf between Prokofiev's brooding Romanticism and Purcell's pastoral patriotism.

The New York Times - Arts

But there remains a wide gulf on the timing, and on what inspection routine the North might accept.

The New York Times

It has also exposed a wide gulf between the American military and the United Nations and Afghan government.

The New York Times

The divergence in the numbers, which officials adjusted for seasonal effects, showed that there remains a wide gulf between Northern and Southern Europe.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a wide gulf", ensure that the two entities being compared are explicitly stated to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a wide gulf" for minor differences; this phrase is most effective when highlighting significant and impactful distinctions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wide gulf" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its use to denote a considerable separation or difference between two entities or concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a wide gulf" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression used to describe a significant difference or separation between two things. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is frequently employed in news, science, and formal business contexts to emphasize substantial disparities. While versatile, it is crucial to reserve this phrase for cases where the distinction is genuinely significant, avoiding its use for trivial differences. Alternatives such as "a significant divide" or "a substantial difference" can be used to fine-tune the nuance. Remember that choosing the right expression depends on the specific context and the degree of disparity you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant divide

Emphasizes the separation or difference between two things more directly.

a considerable gap

Highlights the space or distance between two points or ideas.

a substantial difference

Focuses on the magnitude of the dissimilarity.

a marked contrast

Stresses the distinct and noticeable opposition between two things.

a major discrepancy

Implies an inconsistency or contradiction that needs to be addressed.

a sharp distinction

Highlights the clear and easily recognizable difference.

a vast chasm

Suggests a deep and seemingly unbridgeable separation.

a profound divergence

Emphasizes the fundamental difference in direction or opinion.

a great disparity

Focuses on the inequality or imbalance between two things.

a yawning abyss

Conveys a sense of emptiness and potentially dangerous separation.

FAQs

How can I use "a wide gulf" in a sentence?

Use "a wide gulf" to illustrate a significant disparity between two things. For example, "There is "a wide gulf" between the rich and the poor in many countries".

What are some alternatives to "a wide gulf"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant divide", "a considerable gap", or "a substantial difference" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a wide gulf" in formal writing?

Yes, "a wide gulf" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly conveys a substantial difference and is widely used in academic and professional contexts.

What's the difference between "a wide gulf" and "a small difference"?

"A wide gulf" indicates a large, significant difference, whereas "a small difference" suggests only a minor distinction. The choice depends on the magnitude of the disparity you wish to describe.