a widening divide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a widening divide" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an increasing gap or difference between two groups, ideas, or situations. Example: "The report highlights a widening divide between the rich and the poor in our society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

But others sense a widening divide.

The New York Times

But polls show both a growing acceptance of the practice and a widening divide along party lines.

The New Yorker

The backlash after the hanging has sharpened the sense of a widening divide between Shia and Sunni.

The Guardian

The union's actions exposed a widening divide between Mr. Lynch and Raymond W. Kelly, the police commissioner at the time.

The New York Times

But there remains a widening divide still simmering within the animal-rights community over the treatment of abused, high-risk animals.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, in a giant democracy, where aspirations are soaring for many, even the perception of a widening divide can be politically dangerous.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

From a Republican standpoint, the widening divide could not come at a more inopportune time.

The New York Times

In a more recent book, "Coming Apart," Murray focusses on the widening divide between a self-segregated white upper class and an emerging white lower class.

The New Yorker

We discuss possible negative outcomes resulting from the proliferation of technology, including increased social isolation and a widening digital divide.

Futures

Among Cubans of all races, there is growing concern about a widening economic divide that is also racial.

The New York Times

"A widening generational divide finds Tibetan leaders unable to resolve growing dissatisfaction among younger Tibetans," the officials said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a widening divide", ensure you clearly identify the entities or concepts that are becoming increasingly separated. Specificity enhances the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a widening divide" as a generic phrase without specifying what is being divided. Always provide a clear subject for the divide to maintain clarity and relevance for your reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a widening divide" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI validates, it describes an increasing separation or difference.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a widening divide" is a commonly used phrase to describe an increasing gap or separation between two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and applicability across various contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to provide a clear subject to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "a growing gulf" or "an expanding gap" to fine-tune your message. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase maintains a neutral register, ensuring its suitability for diverse audiences and formal writing. Ensuring specific and clear context is fundamental for effective communication when using "a widening divide".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a growing gulf

Focuses on the increasing size of the separation, similar to "a widening divide".

an expanding gap

Highlights the increase in distance or difference between two things.

a deepening chasm

Emphasizes the increasing depth of the separation, implying a more significant divide.

a broadening rift

Indicates that the split or disagreement is becoming more extensive.

a mounting discrepancy

Suggests an increasing difference or inconsistency between things.

an escalating divergence

Highlights the increasing deviation from a common point.

an intensifying separation

Emphasizes the strengthening of the state of being apart.

a developing disparity

Focuses on the evolution and growth of the inequality or difference.

a stretched boundary

Implies that the limits or differences between entities are being extended.

an augmented distance

Highlights that the space or difference is enlarged or increased.

FAQs

What does "a widening divide" mean?

The phrase "a widening divide" refers to an increasing separation, disagreement, or disparity between two or more groups, ideas, or situations. It suggests that the gap between them is growing larger over time.

How can I use "a widening divide" in a sentence?

You can use "a widening divide" to describe increasing gaps in various contexts, such as "a widening divide" between the rich and poor, or "a widening divide" in political opinions. Make sure to clearly identify what is being divided.

What are some alternatives to "a widening divide"?

Alternatives to "a widening divide" include "a growing gulf", "an expanding gap", or "a deepening chasm". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a widening divide" in formal writing?

Yes, "a widening divide" is appropriate for formal writing, as it is grammatically correct and widely used in news, academic, and professional contexts. However, ensure that the context is clear and the subject of the divide is well-defined.