are a bridge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are a bridge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to describe a connection or link between two things, such as ideas, people, or concepts. Example: "These initiatives are a bridge between the community and local government, fostering better communication and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

They are a bridge from one floating world to another.

The New York Times - Arts

The plug-ins, in turn, are a bridge towards all-electric vehicles.

The Economist

From the Education Department's perspective, the councils are a bridge to parents, said Stephanie Browne, a department spokeswoman.

The New York Times

The authors writer that mid-term objectives are a bridge between long-term aspirations and immediate needs.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Jellies are a bridge between simple, ancient life forms, and the wildly diversified life we see around us today.

The Guardian

He added: In the words of the education secretary Michael Gove, direct payments are a "bridge too far".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Upstart was inspired by the African proverb of "faster alone, farther together". We are a bridge-builder, connecting artists, impact investors and social entrepreneurs.

Duke University

We're a bridge sometimes".

The New York Times - Arts

Anyway, it's a bridge.

The New Yorker

"Hariri was a bridge.

The Washington Post

"Nuclear energy is a bridge," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are a bridge" to metaphorically connect distinct entities, ideas, or phases. Ensure the analogy is clear and contributes meaningfully to the overall message.

Common error

Avoid using "are a bridge" excessively in one piece of writing. Overuse can diminish the metaphor's impact and make your writing sound cliché. Vary your language by using synonyms or alternative expressions like "serve as a link" or "act as a connector".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are a bridge" functions as a metaphorical expression, primarily used to indicate a connecting element or a transition between two distinct entities or ideas. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

21%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are a bridge" serves as a versatile metaphorical tool for illustrating connection, transition, or mediation between two distinct entities. Ludwig's analysis confirms the grammatical correctness and widespread usage of the phrase across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science and Academia. When using this expression, it's important to ensure clarity and avoid overuse. Alternative phrases such as "serve as a link" or "act as a connector" can provide variety and prevent cliché. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to succinctly convey the idea of connecting disparate elements, making it a valuable asset for clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serve as a link

This alternative replaces the metaphorical "bridge" with the more literal "link", emphasizing the connective function.

act as a connector

This phrase uses the noun "connector" to highlight the role of joining or linking disparate elements.

provide a connection

This alternative focuses on the provision of a link or bond between two things.

form a bond

This phrase emphasizes the creation of a relationship or union.

facilitate transition

This alternative highlights the easing of movement or change between states or conditions.

mediate between

This phrase suggests acting as an intermediary to resolve differences or connect parties.

unite disparate elements

This alternative emphasizes the bringing together of separate or contrasting components.

create synergy

This phrase focuses on the combined effect being greater than the sum of individual elements.

establish communication

This alternative underlines the creation of channels for exchanging information and ideas.

build a relationship

This phrase highlights the development of a connection or association over time.

FAQs

How can I use "are a bridge" in a sentence?

The phrase "are a bridge" metaphorically connects two distinct entities, ideas, or stages. For example, "These initiatives "are a bridge" between the community and local government."

What can I say instead of "are a bridge"?

You can use alternatives like "serve as a link", "act as a connector", or "provide a connection" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is a bridge" or "are a bridge"?

Use "is a bridge" for singular subjects and "are a bridge" for plural subjects. For instance, "This program is a bridge to success", or, "These programs "are a bridge" to success".

What's the difference between "are a bridge" and "building bridges"?

"Are a bridge" describes a state of connection, while "building bridges" implies an active process of creating those connections. The former focuses on an existing link, whereas the latter focuses on actively forming a relationship, understanding or communication.