the gap narrows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the gap narrows' is correct and is used in written English.
You can use it to talk about the difference between two different things becoming smaller or closer together. For example, "As the new school year began, the gap between the test scores of the different classes at the school narrowed significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

With this more extreme situation, the gap narrows again.

The Washington Post

The price increases come as the gap narrows between overall rents in northern Brooklyn and Manhattan.

The New York Times

But as the gap narrows, or even turns negative, they lose their enthusiasm for lending.

The Economist

The gap narrows among young black voters, however, and so both campaigns have set to work.

The New Yorker

More useful, the gap narrows midcareer: $70,200 to $70,000.

The New York Times

When these factors are taken into account the gap narrows considerably — in some studies, to the point of vanishing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Overall, the gap narrowed slightly but by not nearly enough.

The Guardian

But the gap narrowed in the final weeks of the primary campaign.

The New York Times

By the 11th grade, the gap narrowed considerably in language arts, though not in math.

The New York Times

After the apples-to-apples statistical adjustments, the gap narrowed but still existed.

The New York Times - Science

Among high school seniors, the gap narrowed to 19 points from 24 points.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing trends, pairing "the gap narrows" with specific data points or timeframes strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "the gap narrows" when the intention is to describe the difference increasing. This phrase specifically denotes a reduction in the disparity.

Linguistic Context

"The gap narrows" functions as a statement describing a trend or change in the relationship between two distinct entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. The phrase indicates a reduction in the difference or disparity between these entities, be it in numerical data, social standing, or any measurable aspect.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the gap narrows" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a reduction in the difference between two entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, its function is primarily informative, and it is employed across various registers, though most frequently in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the specific entities being compared and the nature of the reduction. Alternatives like "the difference diminishes" or "the disparity shrinks" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. Remember, the phrase inherently indicates a decrease in difference, so avoid using it when the opposite is true.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the difference diminishes

Focuses on the reduction of a difference, rather than a gap.

the disparity shrinks

Emphasizes the lessening of an inequality or imbalance.

the divide closes

Suggests a merging or bridging of two separate entities.

the margin decreases

Highlights the reduction in a competitive or quantitative advantage.

the space contracts

Implies a physical or metaphorical compression of the area between two things.

the separation lessens

Focuses on the reduction of distance or distinction.

the breach is mended

Suggests a repairing of a break or rift.

the inequality reduces

Directly addresses the lessening of unfairness or imbalance.

the imbalance corrects

Suggests a return to equilibrium or fairness.

the advantage wanes

Highlights the diminishing of a favorable position.

FAQs

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

You can use "the gap narrows" to describe a decreasing difference between two things. For example, "As technology improves, "the gap narrows" between virtual and real experiences".

What is an alternative to saying "the gap narrows"?

Alternatives include "the difference diminishes", "the disparity shrinks", or "the divide closes", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the gap is narrowing" instead of "the gap narrows"?

Yes, both are grammatically correct. "The gap is narrowing" is a continuous tense, indicating an ongoing process, while "the gap narrows" is a simple present tense, suggesting a general trend or a statement of fact.

What does "the gap narrows" imply about the entities being compared?

It implies that the difference between two entities, whether measurable or abstract, is becoming smaller. This could be in terms of performance, opinions, or any other quantifiable or qualifiable attribute.