across the divide

USAGE SUMMARY

"across the divide" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe a situation where two opposing sides or groups are separated by a significant difference, such as beliefs, values, or opinions. Example: Despite their political differences, the leaders were able to come together and work across the divide to pass the important legislation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That sentiment was echoed across the divide.

The New York Times

Sometimes conversations happened across the divide.

The New York Times

It requires reaching across the divide".

The New York Times

But what about a coalition across the divide?

The Economist

US Politicians across the divide are throwing a hissy fit.

Independent

Some artists, like Mr. Stötzl, work across the divide.

The New York Times - Arts

Not even human filth could flow across the divide.

The Guardian

He added: "Paisley's speeches have reached out across the divide.

The Guardian

If anything can unite Indian women across the divide, it is this moment.

The New York Times

Like Cinderella, Annie leaps across the divide — but she never forgets those she left behind.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But the love-across-the-divide theme soon fizzles, having been little more than a demonstration of that familiar adolescent condition: more mouth than trousers.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "across the divide", ensure the context clearly establishes the nature of the division (e.g., political, cultural, economic) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "across the divide" when the separation is minor or insignificant. The phrase implies a substantial difference or barrier.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "across the divide" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often modifying verbs or nouns to indicate movement, connection, or interaction that overcomes a significant separation or difference. As supported by Ludwig, it emphasizes bridging or spanning this separation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "across the divide" is a frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies bridging substantial differences. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in diverse contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business domains, it serves to emphasize unity and reconciliation efforts. While versatile, it's most effective when the division is clearly defined. Alternative phrases like "bridging the gap" or "overcoming differences" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific intent. The expert rating underscores its reliability and appropriateness in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bridging the gap

Focuses on reducing differences or inequalities.

overcoming differences

Highlights the act of successfully surpassing disagreements or variances.

transcending boundaries

Emphasizes going beyond limitations or borders.

unifying disparate groups

Highlights the action of bringing together separate and different entities.

spanning the chasm

Evokes the image of covering a large separation or difference.

reaching common ground

Focuses on finding shared beliefs or agreements.

fostering understanding

Emphasizes promoting comprehension and empathy between different parties.

building bridges

Highlights the act of creating connections and relationships.

connecting diverse perspectives

Focuses on linking various viewpoints and opinions.

encompassing all parties

Stresses the inclusion of every group or individual involved.

FAQs

How can I use "across the divide" in a sentence?

You can use "across the divide" to describe actions or relationships that bridge significant differences, such as "politicians working "across the aisle"" or "finding common ground "across the divide"".

What are some alternatives to saying "across the divide"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "bridging the gap", "overcoming differences", or "transcending boundaries".

Is it appropriate to use "across the divide" in formal writing?

Yes, "across the divide" is suitable for formal writing. It's frequently used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports to describe efforts to unite differing groups or ideas.

What kind of divisions can "across the divide" refer to?

"Across the divide" can describe divisions based on various factors, including political affiliation, cultural background, economic status, religious belief, or even personal differences.