narrow gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrow gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small space or distance between two objects or concepts, often implying a limited margin or difference. Example: "There is a narrow gap between the two buildings that allows just enough room for pedestrians to pass through."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

It is a very narrow gap.

The Guardian

Kane, E. O. Band structure of narrow gap semiconductors.

Nature

Rigaux, C. Interband magnetooptics in narrow gap semiconductors.

Nature

In some ways, a narrow gap would be a more promising result than a shattered panel.

The New York Times

Display tables completely encircled the room, leaving only a narrow gap for entry.

The New Yorker

It was also difficult to shoot them accurately through the narrow gap in the window.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

This chapter discusses the principles and features of narrow-gap welding, narrow-gap welding processes, developments in narrow-gap gas metal arc welding (GMAW), and uses of narrow-gap welding.

Advanced Welding Processes

The sample A, x=0.175, is a standard narrow-gap semiconductor at any temperature.

Nature

There exist middle-gap semiconductors, narrow-gap semiconductors, and gapless systems.

Carbon

Rumyantsev, V. V. et al. Spectra and kinetics of THz photoconductivity in narrow-gap Hg1 xCdxTe (x< 0.2) epitaxial films.

Nature

Moreover, the simple mBJ+U method works equally well for moderate-gap systems and theoretically challenging narrow-gap systems.

Computational Materials Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical spaces, use "narrow gap" to emphasize the limited distance between two objects or surfaces. For abstract concepts, it highlights a slight difference or margin.

Common error

Avoid using "narrow gap" when describing large or expansive areas; it should be reserved for situations where the space or difference is genuinely small and significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrow gap" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in describing both physical spaces and abstract differences. For example, "A duct with a narrow gap was designed to simulate a fin-tube heat exchanger."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science & Research

7%

News & Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "narrow gap" is a versatile noun phrase widely used to describe limited physical spaces or slight differences between concepts, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Appearing frequently in both scientific and news contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various forms of communication. To enhance clarity, consider alternatives like "small opening" or "slim margin" depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Remember to reserve its usage for describing genuinely small spaces or distinctions, avoiding its application in broader or more expansive scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small opening

Focuses on the physical dimension of the space.

tight space

Emphasizes the limited room available.

slim margin

Highlights a small difference or advantage.

confined area

Stresses the restricted nature of the location.

limited clearance

Indicates restricted space for movement.

confined space

Emphasizes the restricted dimensions of a location.

fine distinction

Emphasizes a subtle difference between two things.

marginal difference

Highlights a slight variation or disparity.

close proximity

Focuses on objects being near to each other.

minimal separation

Highlights that two things are barely apart.

FAQs

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

You can use "narrow gap" to describe a small physical space, as in "The city lies in the narrow gap between the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains", or a small difference, such as "There is a surprisingly narrow gap that separates the good performance from the great performance".

What are some alternatives to "narrow gap"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "small opening", "slim margin", or "tight space".

Is it correct to say "a narrow gap between"?

Yes, "a narrow gap between" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to indicate a small space or difference separating two objects or concepts.

What's the difference between "narrow gap" and "wide gap"?

"Narrow gap" refers to a small space or difference, while "wide gap" implies a large space or significant difference. The choice depends on the actual distance or disparity you are describing.