to bridge the gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to bridge the gap" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express an idea of bringing two or more distinct things or ideas closer together or to reconcile two or more competing interests or opinions. For example, "The government has proposed a plan to bridge the gap between crime-ridden neighborhoods and affluent areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Justice Alito struggles to bridge the gap.

The New York Times

Abunassar wants to bridge the gap.

The New York Times - Sports

We have to bridge the gap.

The New York Times

"We try to bridge the gap.

The Guardian

"We aim to bridge the gap between these two disciplines".

The New York Times

We want to bridge the gap between the races.

The New Yorker

"Now we just have to bridge the gap towards success".

Independent

"They don't know how to bridge the gap.

The New Yorker

Field experiments offer a way to bridge the gap.

The New York Times - Magazine

Money is tight, and Thorpe helps to bridge the gap.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Or find a way to bridge the gap?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to bridge the gap", clearly identify the two distinct entities or concepts you are trying to connect. This provides context and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Don't use "to bridge the gap" without specifying what gap you're referring to. A vague statement weakens the impact. Always clarify the distinct elements that need connection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to bridge the gap" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically used to express purpose or intention. It indicates the action of connecting or reconciling two distinct entities or ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Unknown

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to bridge the gap" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies the act of connecting or reconciling disparate entities, ideas, or groups. As affirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. While alternatives like "to close the divide" and "to reconcile differences" exist, "to bridge the gap" uniquely emphasizes the creation of a pathway for connection. It's crucial to clearly identify the specific gap being addressed for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to build a bridge

This is a more literal and less idiomatic version of the original phrase.

to close the divide

This alternative focuses on eliminating the separation rather than building a connection.

to forge a connection

Emphasizes the creation of a new relationship or link.

to reconcile differences

This phrase emphasizes resolving conflicts or disagreements.

to narrow the chasm

This alternative suggests reducing the distance between distinct entities.

to unify disparate elements

Highlights the act of bringing together distinct and diverse components.

to connect the dots

This alternative suggests creating a meaningful link between seemingly unrelated ideas or elements.

to mediate the space

This alternative focuses on acting as an intermediary to reduce differences.

to find common ground

Focuses on discovering shared interests or beliefs to overcome disagreements.

to create synergy

This phrase indicates creating a combined effect greater than the sum of separate effects.

FAQs

How can I use "to bridge the gap" in a sentence?

You can use "to bridge the gap" to show how seemingly different concepts or groups can be connected. For example, "The new program aims to bridge the gap between education and employment opportunities."

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

Alternatives include "to close the divide", "to reconcile differences", or "to connect the dots", each carrying slightly different nuances.

When is it appropriate to use "to bridge the gap"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the action of connecting two distinct entities, ideas, or groups that are currently separated.

What's the difference between "to bridge the gap" and "to reduce the gap"?

"To bridge the gap" suggests creating a connection or pathway, while "to reduce the gap" implies lessening the distance or difference. They are similar, but the former focuses on connection, and the latter focuses on diminishing the disparity.