slashed the gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slashed the gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant reduction or decrease in a difference or distance between two points, often in a competitive or comparative context. Example: "The new policy slashed the gap between the rich and the poor, creating a more equitable society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

With marketing budgets slashed, The Gap, Banana Republic and J. Crew merge because consumers realize advertising is the only differentiating feature of their clothing.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But federal programmes for the poor and labour protection laws were slashed, the growing gap between rich and poor deepened, the minimum wage was frozen and thousands of striking air traffic controllers sacked, a famous victory for "Reaganomics".

The Guardian

All that changed when he slashed through the gap between Ibanez and Yannick Jauzion just outside the France 22, dismissed Clément Poitrenaud's tackle and offloaded brilliantly to Flood, who was able to curve across the line.

The Guardian - Sport

The Gap has already slashed the prices of much of its signature leather collection in half.

The New York Times

It slashed the number of coupons.

The New York Times

Sony slashed the device's price this year.

The New York Times

It also slashed the price.

The New York Times - Travel

Horrors he also slashed the dividend.

Forbes

Double slash indicates the gaps in the nucleotide sequence (a point of joining of two contigs).

AMB Express

And we can expect to see further privatisation and casualisation in the attempt to plug the gaps opened up by slashing the workforce.

The Guardian - Money

And compared to the May 3 show, "Face the Nation" has slashed its viewing gap with "Meet" by 69% (230,000 viewers compared to 740,000 viewers), while "This Week" has cut its viewing gap with "Meet" by 38% (350,000 viewers compared to 560,000 viewers).

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slashed the gap", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being reduced and between what entities or concepts the gap exists. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "slashed the gap" when the reduction is minimal or insignificant. This phrase implies a substantial and noticeable decrease; using it for minor changes can mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slashed the gap" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of significantly reducing a difference or disparity between two entities or values. This is supported by Ludwig, which validates its usage in context.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

16%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slashed the gap" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to convey a notable reduction in a difference or disparity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, indicating it's most frequently found in news and media. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure the context implies a significant reduction to avoid overstatement. Alternatives like "narrowed the divide" or "reduced the disparity" may be more appropriate for milder decreases. By avoiding exaggeration and ensuring clarity, writers can effectively use "slashed the gap" to communicate meaningful change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lessened the difference

A more general term indicating a decrease in any kind of distinction.

narrowed the divide

This alternative emphasizes reducing a separation or disagreement, rather than a distance.

reduced the disparity

Focuses on lessening inequality or difference in quantity or quality.

shrunk the gulf

Similar to 'gap' but may imply a wider, more profound separation.

bridged the divide

Suggests overcoming or connecting across a separation, focusing on unity.

diminished the margin

Specifically refers to reducing the difference, often in competitive scenarios.

closed the breach

Implies mending a break or a significant rift, often in relationships or security.

abridged the separation

Emphasizes shortening or reducing a period or instance of being apart.

mitigated the divide

Focuses on alleviating or reducing the severity of a separation.

curtailed the distance

Highlights a reduction in physical or metaphorical separation.

FAQs

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

Use "slashed the gap" to indicate a significant reduction or decrease in a difference or distance between two things. For example: "The new policy "slashed the gap" between the rich and the poor."

What can I say instead of "slashed the gap"?

You can use alternatives like "narrowed the divide", "reduced the disparity", or "lessened the difference" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "slashed the gap" or "narrowed the gap"?

Both ""slashed the gap"" and "narrowed the gap" are grammatically correct. "Slashed the gap" implies a more dramatic or significant reduction than "narrowed the gap".

What's the difference between "slashed the gap" and "bridged the gap"?

"Slashed the gap" implies a significant reduction in the distance or difference, while "bridged the divide" suggests connecting or overcoming the separation entirely.