narrower gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrower gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing differences, distances, or disparities that are becoming smaller or more limited. Example: "The recent negotiations have led to a narrower gap between the two parties' positions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Will Democrats maintain this narrower gap?

The New York Times

We set off again, through an even narrower gap.

The Guardian - Travel

"Massachusetts," Roberts responded, adding that even Mississippi has a narrower gap.

The Guardian - Opinion

A YouGov poll in the Times reported a slightly narrower gap, with a no vote at 52% and yes support at 32%.

The Guardian

Would an economy with a narrower gap between the haves and the have-nots lead to stronger life-expectancy gains, from the richest to the poorest?

The New York Times

Both have increasingly narrower gap widths between the columns along the flow axis with 20, 15, 10, and 5 μm spacing all on one device.

Journal of Chromatography A

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

But the surveys by the Times Mirror Center (which later became the Pew Research Center) found much narrower gaps.

Huffington Post

It is a very narrow gap.

The Guardian

The narrowest gap is upstate, where the governor leads 45percentto30percentcent.

The New York Times

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

Nature

Rigaux, C. Interband magnetooptics in narrow gap semiconductors.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "narrower gap", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being compared. For instance, specify "narrower gap between income levels" rather than just "narrower gap".

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "narrower gap" automatically implies a positive outcome. While a reduced disparity might be desirable in certain contexts, it's crucial to analyze the underlying factors contributing to this change and their broader implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrower gap" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "narrower" modifies the noun "gap". It typically describes a quantitative or qualitative difference that has been reduced. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "narrower gap" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies a reduction in difference or disparity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely applicable in various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as scientific discourse. While the phrase often carries positive connotations, it's crucial to consider the underlying factors contributing to this reduction and avoid assumptions about its overall impact. Related phrases such as "smaller difference" or "reduced disparity" can be used as alternatives, depending on the desired nuance. Remember to clearly specify the elements being compared when using the phrase to ensure clarity and avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lessening gap

A more direct synonym, simply replacing 'narrower' with 'lessening'.

smaller difference

Focuses on the reduced size of the difference.

shrinking difference

Highlights the reduction in the magnitude of the distinction.

reduced disparity

Emphasizes the diminished inequality or imbalance.

closing divide

Highlights the act of bringing two things closer together, reducing the gap between them.

decreasing margin

Refers to a shrinking lead or advantage.

diminishing space

Focuses on physical or metaphorical space that is becoming smaller.

tighter spread

Indicates a reduction in the range or distribution of something.

converging lines

Suggests that two or more paths are moving closer together.

bridging the divide

Focuses on the act of connecting two things, implying a reduction in the gap.

FAQs

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

You can use "narrower gap" to describe a reduction in the difference between two things. For example, "The company aims to achieve a "narrower gap" between executive and employee pay".

What are some alternatives to "narrower gap"?

Alternatives include "smaller difference", "reduced disparity", or "closing divide", depending on the specific context.

Is it always positive to have a "narrower gap"?

Not necessarily. While a reduced gap can signify progress in some areas, it's important to consider the underlying reasons. A "narrower gap" might also indicate a decline in overall standards rather than an improvement for those at the lower end.

What's the difference between "narrower gap" and "smaller gap"?

"Narrower gap" and "smaller gap" are largely interchangeable. The choice often depends on stylistic preference or the specific nuance you wish to convey. "Narrower" may subtly emphasize the process of reduction, while "smaller" focuses more on the end result.