vast gulf

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vast gulf" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to describe a significant or stark contrast between two things, whether it be ideas, opinions, or physical spaces. Example: "There was a vast gulf between the two political parties' views on immigration policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Vast, vast gulf over two games between two sides.

The Guardian - Sport

Unless you were born yesterday, you already know there's a vast gulf between C.E.O.

The New York Times

Anti-establishment A vast gulf separates Tea Party Republicans from the inchoate Wall Street Occupiers.

The New York Times

Why this vast gulf between the state of the two cohorts in the same school?

The Guardian

However, there is a vast gulf between the pro-Corbyn and anti-Corbyn camps.

The Guardian

I can sense that vast gulf of experience stretching between us.

The New York Times - Magazine

Despite a vast gulf in media coverage of the two meetings, they were, in fact, tightly linked.

The Economist

Morison wrote with grace and eloquence of the vast gulf separating seventeenth-century New Englanders from himself.

The New Yorker

Witness the vast gulf between even devoted Catholics and the unyielding Vatican on the morality of contraception.

The New York Times

He does have an unfortunate habit, however, of accidentally highlighting the vast gulf in circumstances between himself and most Americans.

The Economist

Campion also said she doesn't see a vast gulf between film and television, in terms of quality.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "vast gulf" to clearly and dramatically illustrate a significant difference or separation between two distinct entities or concepts. It's particularly effective when emphasizing the magnitude of the contrast.

Common error

Avoid using "vast gulf" when describing minor or trivial differences. The phrase implies a substantial separation, so reserve it for situations where the contrast is truly significant to maintain impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vast gulf" functions as a noun phrase, with "vast" modifying the noun "gulf". It typically serves to emphasize a significant disparity or separation between two distinct entities or concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and presence in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vast gulf" is a versatile phrase used to describe a significant disparity or separation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in News & Media. When writing, remember that it suggests a substantial difference and therefore should be used appropriately to avoid exaggerating minor contrasts. Consider alternatives like "wide chasm" or "significant divide" depending on the specific context. Its neutral register and frequent presence in authoritative sources make "vast gulf" a reliable choice for emphasizing substantial differences in various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

immense gulf

Uses a synonym to amplify the scale of difference.

wide chasm

Emphasizes the depth and impassability of the difference.

significant divide

Highlights the importance and impact of the separation.

large disparity

Focuses on the inequality or imbalance between the two things.

great divide

A common and slightly more emphatic way to express a significant difference.

tremendous divide

Indicates a very large and impactful division.

considerable gap

Indicates a notable but perhaps not insurmountable difference.

substantial difference

Highlights the significance of the variation between the items being compared.

marked contrast

Emphasizes the clear and distinct nature of the difference.

deep fissure

Suggests a fundamental and potentially damaging separation.

FAQs

How can I use "vast gulf" in a sentence?

You can use "vast gulf" to describe a significant difference or separation between two things. For example: "There is a "vast gulf" between their opinions on the matter."

What are some alternatives to "vast gulf"?

Some alternatives include "wide chasm", "significant divide", or "large disparity". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to use "vast gulf" in formal writing?

Yes, "vast gulf" is appropriate for formal writing. It is frequently used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports to emphasize substantial differences.

What is the difference between "vast gulf" and "significant difference"?

"Vast gulf" implies a more profound and often unbridgeable separation than a "significant difference". The former suggests a stark contrast, while the latter simply indicates that there is a notable variation.