bridged the gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bridged the gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of connecting two different ideas, groups, or situations, often to resolve a difference or misunderstanding. Example: "The new policy bridged the gap between management and employees, fostering better communication and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

But African languages bridged the gap.

The New York Times

The informality of the medium has seemingly bridged the gap.

The Guardian

"It's bridged the gap extraordinarily well," said Mr. Kabbash, who does work for private clients.

The New York Times

"And at CBS Les Moonves has personally bridged the gap between the coasts.

The New York Times

Technologically, gunpowder bridged the gap between the medieval and modern eras.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the two sides have not bridged the gap on the escrow cutoff.

The Economist

Gunpowder bridged the gap between the old and the new intellectually as well as technologically.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He bridged the gap between the days of Magic and Jordan to the days of LeBron and Steph.

The Guardian - Sport

Most recently, the Internet has bridged the gap, so that expatriates can be more connected to home than ever before.

The New York Times - Tech

However, stories like this bridged the gap between a declining monarchy and its increasingly powerful and literate people.

The Guardian

In the recent past, tax credits have bridged the gap between low pay and a living wage.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bridged the gap" when you want to emphasize a successful connection or resolution between two distinct entities or ideas. For instance, "The new software bridged the gap between the old system and the updated platform."

Common error

Avoid using "bridged the gap" when simply referring to physical gaps or distances. The phrase is best suited for conceptual or abstract connections, rather than literal ones. Prefer alternative expression like "closed" or "filled" the physical gap.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bridged the gap" functions as a verb phrase that typically describes the action of connecting or reconciling two distinct entities, ideas, or situations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its meaning involves establishing a link where a separation previously existed. The phrase highlights the act of overcoming differences to create a connection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Huffington Post

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bridged the gap" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of connecting or reconciling distinct entities or ideas. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage, highlighting its role in emphasizing successful connections. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, the phrase effectively underscores the positive outcome of overcoming divides. While generally neutral, its usage tends toward formal and professional settings. Remember to use "bridged the gap" when emphasizing a successful connection between previously disparate elements and avoid applying it to literal, physical gaps. Alternatives like "connected the divide" or "reconciled the differences" offer nuanced options depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

connected the divide

Focuses on connecting, specifically addressing a division.

reconciled the differences

Emphasizes resolving discrepancies between distinct entities.

linked the disparities

Highlights the connection between unequal or dissimilar things.

united the factions

Implies bringing together opposing groups or parties.

narrowed the divide

Suggests reducing the space or difference between two things.

brought together

A simpler and more general way to express the act of uniting.

established a connection

Focuses on creating a link or bond.

created a link

Emphasizes the formation of a connection point.

served as a link

Indicates that something acted as the means of connection.

fostered understanding

Suggests promoting comprehension and agreement between parties.

FAQs

How can I use "bridged the gap" in a sentence?

Use "bridged the gap" to show how something connects or reconciles differences between two distinct things. For example: "The new initiative "bridged the gap" between research and practical application."

What are some alternatives to "bridged the gap"?

You can use alternatives like "connected the divide", "reconciled the differences", or "linked the disparities" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "bridged the gap" in formal writing?

Yes, "bridged the gap" is suitable for formal writing. It is used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports to indicate a connection or resolution between distinct entities or ideas.

What's the difference between "bridged the gap" and "closed the gap"?

"Bridged the gap" emphasizes connection and reconciliation, while "closed the gap" focuses on eliminating a disparity or inequality. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the connection or the reduction of the difference.