serve as a bridge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serve as a bridge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe how a person or thing can provide a connection between two people, places, or concepts. For example, "Mary's extensive knowledge of computer programming served as a bridge between my company's technical staff and our executive team during an important meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Broadcasts could serve as a bridge.

The New York Times - Arts

It can serve as a bridge to a new life".

The New York Times

It can serve as a bridge in three-team deals.

The New York Times

Until that happens, the agency's rules could serve as a bridge.

The New York Times

The guides also serve as a bridge between health professionals and the community.

The Guardian

They will serve as a bridge for people who need transfusions.

The New York Times - Science

I suspect we'll see more sites that essentially serve as a bridge between street style and e-commerce.

The New York Times

"We try to serve as a bridge between the people who need help and the people who can provide it".

The New York Times

The building's scale and masonry facade serve as "a bridge to the community," said Barry Shapiro, an associate at Hillier.

The New York Times

As African churches attract increasing numbers of white worshipers, they can serve as a bridge between races, he added.

The New York Times

Like many other religious institutions, the church has continued to serve as a bridge between government and immigrants.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "serve as a bridge" to clearly convey a connecting or transitional function between two distinct entities or concepts. This phrase is particularly useful when describing abstract relationships or processes.

Common error

Avoid using "serve as a bridge" excessively in a single text. While effective, overuse can make your writing repetitive and less impactful. Vary your language by incorporating synonyms like "act as a link" or "function as a connector".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serve as a bridge" functions primarily as a metaphorical expression. It describes something that connects two distinct entities, ideas, or stages. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "serve as a bridge" is a versatile expression used to describe a connecting function between distinct entities. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, from scientific research to news reporting. While highly effective, overuse should be avoided for stylistic reasons. Understanding its alternatives, such as "act as a link" or "function as a connector", can further enhance writing precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act as a link

This alternative suggests a more direct connection between two entities.

function as a connector

This emphasizes the role of uniting or joining different elements.

provide a connection

Focuses on the act of supplying a means of joining or communication.

form a link

Highlights the creation or establishment of a bond.

offer a pathway

Implies a route or method for moving between two points or states.

build a relationship

This emphasizes the creation of connections, typically between people or groups.

establish communication

Focuses on the initiation of interaction between parties.

mediate between

Suggests acting as an intermediary to resolve differences or facilitate understanding.

facilitate transition

Emphasizes easing or supporting a change or shift.

enable access

This focuses on granting the ability to reach or use something.

FAQs

How can I use "serve as a bridge" in a sentence?

The phrase "serve as a bridge" is used to describe something that connects two separate things, ideas, or people. For instance, "Effective communication can "serve as a bridge" between different departments in a company."

What are some alternatives to "serve as a bridge"?

You can use alternatives like "act as a link", "function as a connector", or "provide a connection" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "serves as a bridge" instead of "serve as a bridge"?

Yes, the verb form changes to "serves" when the subject is singular and third person. For example, "This policy "serves as a bridge" between the old regulations and the new ones."

What's the difference between "serve as a bridge" and "build a bridge"?

"Serve as a bridge" describes an existing function of connection, while "build a bridge" refers to the act of creating that connection. For example, "Education can "serve as a bridge" to a better future," versus "The company aimed to "build a bridge" between different cultures through its diversity program."