a widening gap

USAGE SUMMARY

"a widening gap" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to describe a situation where the space between two things is increasing. For example, you could say: "Between the rich and the poor, there is a widening gap that threatens to destabilize the economy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A widening gap between rich and poor.

The Guardian

Such IPOs can create a widening gap between voting and cash flow rights.

Columbia University

A widening gap between short- and long-term interest rates is often a positive signal.

The New York Times

Behind that surge lies not just the greenback's weakness but a widening gap in interest rates.

The Economist

A report on obesity rates in Australia shows a widening gap between country and city.

The Guardian

Several measures of economic activity reveal a widening gap with the rest of the country.

The Guardian - Business

The prospect is a widening gap for the poor in being able to access justice.

The Guardian

The new study on low-wage workers found a widening gap between rich and poor workers.

The New York Times

The figures show "a widening gap between the haves and the have-nots," the report says.

The New York Times

The figures showed a widening gap in attainment by disadvantaged pupils and their peers.

The Guardian

The files reveal a widening gap between bin Laden and his longtime deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a widening gap" to describe trends or changes over time. It effectively conveys a sense of increasing separation or difference.

Common error

Avoid attributing "a widening gap" to a single cause without considering multiple contributing factors. Economic disparities, social policies, and technological advancements often interact to create these gaps.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a widening gap" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an increasing difference or disparity between two or more distinct entities. As Ludwig explains, the phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

22%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a widening gap" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively describes an increasing difference or disparity. Ludwig confirms its correctness and broad applicability. Predominantly found in news media, scientific publications, and academic writing, it maintains a neutral to formal tone. To enhance clarity, always specify what is diverging. While frequently used to point out negative trend, it’s key to acknowledge possible causes that led to it. When discussing the phrase semantically equivalent options are "an increasing disparity", "a growing divide", and "an expanding chasm" among other alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an increasing disparity

Focuses on the growing inequality or difference between two or more things.

a growing divide

Emphasizes the separation and disconnection that is developing.

an expanding chasm

Implies a large and ever-increasing gulf or separation.

a burgeoning gulf

Highlights the rapid growth of the difference or separation.

a spreading rift

Suggests a break or fissure that is expanding over time.

a broadening divide

Similar to growing divide, but emphasizes the extent of the separation.

an escalating difference

Focuses on the increasing intensity of the distinction.

a mounting separation

Highlights the increasing distance or detachment.

a distending breach

Implies a forceful and expanding separation or violation.

a developing discrepancy

Focuses on the unfolding and increasingly noticeable lack of compatibility.

FAQs

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

You can use "a widening gap" to describe an increasing difference between two things. For example, "There is "a widening gap" in salaries between CEOs and average workers", or "The study revealed "a widening gap" in academic performance based on socioeconomic status".

What are some alternatives to "a widening gap"?

Alternatives to "a widening gap" include "an increasing disparity", "a growing divide", or "an expanding chasm", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What kind of situations does "a widening gap" best describe?

"A widening gap" is best used to describe situations where there is an increasing difference or separation between two distinct entities or groups, such as income inequality, academic achievement, or technological advancement. It often implies a negative or concerning trend.

Is it correct to use "a widening gap" in formal writing?

Yes, "a widening gap" is perfectly acceptable in formal writing. Ludwig AI also confirms that it is accurate and can be used in a wide array of contexts. It is a clear and concise way to describe an increasing difference or disparity.