straddle the divide

USAGE SUMMARY

"straddle the divide" is a perfectly grammatical and correct phrase in written English.
It is typically used to mean "to occupy a position between two that are usually seen as opposites or incompatible, especially so as to embody or reconcile both of them or their qualities." For example: "The government is trying to straddle the divide between people of different political ideologies to create a consensus for a new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

And some artists manage deftly to straddle the divide.

The Economist

Consumers and creators of culture tend to straddle the divide.

The Guardian - Opinion

For now, the restaurant attempts to straddle the divide between casual and upmarket.

The New Yorker

In that three-year run, he appeared to straddle the divide.

The New York Times

The author's genius was her ability to straddle the divide between anthropomorphizing her creatures and conveying their essentially alien nature.

The New Yorker

Sudan is one of the countries that straddle the divide between sub-Saharan Africa and the continent's predominantly Muslim north.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Sue Contessa, who took first place in fine art, is showing grid-structured paintings that straddle the dividing line between reason and emotion.

The New York Times

Science Careers talked to Cardelli about how his career came to straddle the divides between computer science and biology and, now, between industry and academia.

Science Magazine

Margaret Monck, with her Leica, straddled the divide.

The New York Times - Arts

Many experts say China's interest lies in straddling the divide between Tehran and Washington.

The New York Times

Like Connery, he straddles the divide between Hollywood and the punters on Sauchiehall Street.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "straddle the divide" when you want to convey the idea of something or someone occupying a middle ground, balancing between two distinct and often opposing concepts, groups, or positions.

Common error

Avoid using "straddle the divide" when you actually mean someone is indecisive or failing to commit to one side. The phrase implies a deliberate balancing act, not a lack of conviction. For instance, instead of saying "The politician is straddling the divide on climate change", consider "The politician is hesitant to take a firm stance on climate change" if they are simply avoiding a decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "straddle the divide" functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a clause to describe an entity's ability to occupy a position between two contrasting or opposing sides, ideas, or entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "straddle the divide" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe something or someone existing between two distinct or opposing entities. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, where it conveys a sense of mediation or balance. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a deliberate attempt to reconcile differences rather than mere indecision. Consider alternatives like "bridge the gap" or "span the divide" for slight variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bridge the gap

Implies actively reducing the separation between two distinct entities.

span the divide

Suggests a connection that extends across a separation.

traverse the chasm

Highlights the act of moving across a significant separation or difference.

negotiate the divide

Focuses on skillfully maneuvering between conflicting positions.

reconcile the differences

Emphasizes bringing two opposing things into agreement or harmony.

mediate between extremes

Highlights acting as an intermediary to find common ground.

unite opposing sides

Focuses on bringing disparate groups together.

harmonize conflicting views

Emphasizes creating a pleasing or consistent arrangement from disagreements.

find common ground

Suggests discovering shared interests or beliefs despite differences.

sit between two stools

Highlights an attempt to satisfy multiple sides that may result in pleasing none.

FAQs

How can I use "straddle the divide" in a sentence?

You can use "straddle the divide" to describe someone or something that exists between two different or opposing groups, ideas, or qualities. For instance, "The new policy attempts to "bridge the gap" between economic growth and environmental protection."

What does it mean to "straddle the divide"?

To "straddle the divide" means to occupy a position between two opposing or distinct things, often balancing or reconciling them. It suggests a deliberate act of existing in the middle ground.

What can I say instead of "straddle the divide"?

You can use alternatives like "span the divide", "bridge the gap", or "reconcile the differences", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "straddle the divide" or to choose a side?

Whether it's better to "straddle the divide" or choose a side depends on the situation. Sometimes, finding a middle ground is the most effective approach, while other times, taking a clear stance is necessary. There is no universally correct answer. Instead, you should try to "reconcile the differences" whenever possible.