close the gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close the gap" is a valid and usable expression in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to describe the action of bridging the space between two people, places, or things. For example: "The school's new mentorship program is designed to close the gap between experienced faculty and first-year students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Federal subsidies can help close the gap.

The New York Times

He must close the gap.

The Washington Post

Nonetheless, the doctrine cannot close the gap.

Columbia University

"The fare increase will close the gap.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But we're beginning to close the gap.

The New York Times - Science

They've already helped partially close the gap.

The New York Times

Education helps but doesn't close the gap.

The Washington Post

What solutions have been proposed to close the gap?

The New York Times

She clearly needs their support to close the gap.

The Economist

Studios de Paris aims to close the gap.

The New York Times

Third, spending cuts alone will not close the gap.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "close the gap" when you want to emphasize reducing a disparity or difference between two things, such as skills, opportunities, or performance metrics.

Common error

Avoid using "close the gap" in contexts where the difference is not realistically bridgeable or where the metaphor becomes strained. Overusing metaphors can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close the gap" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes an action aimed at reducing a difference or disparity. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts, from bridging a physical space to diminishing inequalities, and, according to Ludwig AI, is valid and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

19%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "close the gap" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the action of reducing disparities or differences, according to Ludwig. With a neutral register, it's suitable for diverse contexts ranging from formal business settings to informal discussions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both grammatically correct and widely used, signifying its validity in written English. While alternatives like "bridge the divide" or "narrow the disparity" exist, "close the gap" remains a common and effective way to express the intent to diminish inequalities or connect disparate elements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Bridge the divide

Uses "divide" instead of "gap", suggesting a larger separation.

Narrow the disparity

Employs "disparity", indicating inequality, and "narrow", suggesting a gradual reduction.

Reduce inequalities

Focuses on reducing imbalance, often in social or economic contexts.

Minimize the difference

Highlights the act of making the discrepancy smaller, emphasizing measurable aspects.

Level the playing field

Implies creating fairness and equal opportunities where imbalance exists.

Equalize opportunities

Specifically targets fairness of access and chances.

Address the imbalance

Tackles the lack of equilibrium, highlighting a problem-solving approach.

Rectify the discrepancy

Focuses on correcting errors or inconsistencies, suggesting a formal correction.

Mitigate the divide

Emphasizes reducing the negative impact of a separation or disagreement.

Shrink the breach

Uses "breach" to imply a break or violation, making the gap smaller.

FAQs

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

You can use "close the gap" to describe reducing differences, such as "The company implemented training programs to "close the gap" between employee skill levels".

What phrases are similar to "close the gap"?

Alternatives include "bridge the divide", "narrow the disparity", or "reduce inequalities", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "close the gap" or "bridge the gap"?

Both "close the gap" and "bridge the gap" are acceptable, but "close the gap" often implies a reduction in a measurable difference, while "bridge the gap" suggests connecting two separate entities.

In what context is it appropriate to use the phrase "close the gap"?

It's suitable in contexts where you're discussing reducing differences in achievement, opportunities, or performance, such as in education, sports, or business. For instance, to "close the gap" in test scores or in sales.