reducing the gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reducing the gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing efforts to decrease a difference or disparity between two or more entities, such as in economics, education, or social issues. Example: "The government is implementing new policies aimed at reducing the gap between the rich and the poor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So the focus has to be on reducing the gap between rich and poor.

The Guardian

He added that Rupp would start reducing the gap with the East Africans.

The New York Times - Sports

This is wholly revolutionary, aimed at reducing the gap between Whitehall civil servants and the nurses on the wards.

The Guardian

However, recent reforms to the finance of long-term infrastructure debt are reducing the gap still further.

The Guardian

The capacity can be increased by expanding the electrode areas and by reducing the gap between the electrodes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We will have to face up to the fact that individual and collective mental health and wellbeing will depend on reducing the gap between rich and poor".

The Guardian

That suggests businesses are slowly but surely reducing the gap between how much capacity they have and much they need, the analysts say.

The New York Times

Luton are undefeated in four games after a 3-1 win at Port Vale, reducing the gap between the Hatters and safety down to 14 points.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Green has called for reducing the gap between the salaries of teachers in New York City and the suburbs but has not said by how much.

The New York Times

Ann Keen, Health minister for England, said: "The UK is at the forefront of tackling health inequalities but reducing the gap in life expectancy is still an issue".

Independent

But the cuts will go some distance toward reducing the gap between business and holiday fares, which ballooned during the economic boom in the last half of the 1990's.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reducing the gap", clearly specify what gap you are referring to and the entities involved for clarity. For example, "reducing the gap between rich and poor" is more precise than simply "reducing the gap".

Common error

Avoid using "reducing the gap" without a clear and measurable objective. Ensure the context provides a specific area where the gap is being reduced, such as skills, income, or performance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reducing the gap" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a gerund phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the action of lessening a difference. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in diverse contexts, showcasing its versatility and grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0.01%

Wiki

0.01%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reducing the gap" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that effectively communicates the action of lessening disparities. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific research, and formal business settings. For clarity, specify the nature of the gap you are addressing. Alternatives such as "narrowing the divide" or "bridging the gap" offer similar meanings depending on the specific context. Use the phrase strategically to convey precise intentions for diminishing differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

narrowing the divide

Focuses on reducing a separation or disagreement.

bridging the gap

Implies connecting two distinct entities or viewpoints.

closing the disparity

Specifically addresses inequalities or imbalances.

lessening the difference

A more general term for making things more similar.

minimizing the discrepancy

Emphasizes reducing inconsistencies or disagreements.

alleviating inequalities

Addresses making an unfair situation better.

mitigating the imbalance

Focuses on reducing a lack of proportion or equilibrium.

ameliorating the gap

Suggests a more gradual improvement of the gap.

shrinking the divide

Similar to narrowing, but may imply a more substantial reduction.

reconciling the differences

Suggests bringing distinct entities into agreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "reducing the gap" to describe efforts to lessen disparities between groups or things. For example, "The new policy aims at "reducing the gap" between urban and rural healthcare access".

What are some alternatives to "reducing the gap"?

Alternatives include "narrowing the divide", "bridging the gap", or "closing the disparity", depending on the specific context.

Is "reducing the gap" grammatically correct?

Yes, "reducing the gap" is grammatically correct as a gerund phrase acting as a noun. It describes an action or process of lessening a difference or disparity.

What's the difference between "reducing the gap" and "closing the gap"?

"Reducing the gap" implies lessening the difference, while "closing the gap" suggests eliminating it entirely. The choice depends on whether the goal is partial or complete elimination of the disparity.