the great divide

USAGE SUMMARY

"the great divide" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to a significant difference or separation between two groups, ideas, or situations. Example: "The great divide between urban and rural communities has led to differing perspectives on many issues." Alternative expressions include "the significant gap" and "the major split."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The Sudden But Well-Deserved Fall of Rahm Emanuel The Great Divide Mega-Tuesday: Can Anyone Stop Trump?

The New Yorker

In "Along the Great Divide: Great Britain (1900-1912)," the poor are entertained by films from the upper classes.

The New York Times

The great divide.

The Guardian

Oh, Central Park, the Great Divide!

The New York Times

There was a title ("Bridging the Great Divide").

The New York Times

The split was known to insiders as the "Great Divide".

The New York Times

Mrs. Clinton stood up and reached over the great divide.

The New York Times

"Across the Great Divide: Artists of Silvermine" ends July 27.

The New York Times

But in the Sutherland Shire it became the great divide.

The Guardian

Now the marketing men have reverted to the great divide.

The New York Times - Style

For pedestrians in Sunnyside, Queens Boulevard is the great divide.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the great divide" to succinctly describe a significant separation or difference, whether it's ideological, geographical, or social. This phrase adds emphasis and resonance to your writing.

Common error

While effective, "the great divide" can become cliché if overused. Vary your language with synonyms like "significant gap" or "fundamental difference" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the great divide" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, denoting a significant separation or difference. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, emphasizing its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the great divide" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a significant separation or difference. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. Its primary function is to emphasize a substantial division, whether it's ideological, economic, or social. While versatile, it's wise to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like ""significant gap"" or ""fundamental difference"" to maintain reader engagement. The phrase maintains a neutral to slightly formal register, suitable for a wide range of audiences. Remember that the best usage involves understanding the context and choosing the most precise language to convey your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the dividing line

Suggests a precise boundary that separates two things.

the significant gap

Focuses on the notable difference between two things.

the gulf between

This phrase is another way to describe a large separation.

the clear distinction

Stresses the obvious difference between two entities.

the wide gulf

Emphasizes the size and impassability of the separation.

the fundamental difference

Points to a deep and essential variance.

the chasm between

Highlights a deep and seemingly unbridgeable gap.

the major rift

Highlights a split or break in a relationship or unity.

the disparity

Focuses on the inequality or difference in quantity or quality.

the separation

A general term for the act of dividing or being divided.

FAQs

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

You can use "the great divide" to describe a significant separation or difference. For example, "There is a "great divide" between the rich and the poor in many countries".

What are some alternatives to "the great divide"?

Alternatives include "significant gap", "fundamental difference", or "wide gulf", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "the great divide" in formal writing?

Yes, "the great divide" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news and media, as shown in Ludwig's examples. However, consider the context and ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What kind of separation does "the great divide" typically describe?

"The great divide" can describe various types of separations, including ideological, economic, social, or geographical. The specific context will determine the type of divide being referenced.