Gap
/ɡæp/
Definitions
3 meaningsA break or opening in something, a missing piece, or an unfilled space or period of time.
/ɡæp/
An unfilled space or interval.
There was a gap in the fence, allowing the dog to escape.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a LEGO castle, and there's a space where a brick is missing. That empty space? That's a gap! It could also be a break in your schedule, like a gap between classes.
👶 For kids: A gap is like a hole or an empty space. Like the space between your two front teeth!
More Examples
The company identified a gap in the market for sustainable products.
She took a gap year after high school to travel the world.
How It's Used
"There's a gap between the tiles that needs to be filled."
"A gap in my memory prevented me from remembering the details."
A significant difference or disparity, often implying inequality or a lack of agreement.
/ɡæp/
A difference or disparity.
The gender gap in pay remains a significant issue.
💡 Simply: Imagine two friends who have very different opinions. The disagreement between them creates a 'gap' in their views. It's a difference, like the gap between your grades and your dream of getting a perfect score.
👶 For kids: A gap is like when things are not the same. Like the difference between two people's toys.
More Examples
We need to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
There's a widening gap in the polls between the candidates.
How It's Used
"The income gap between the rich and poor is widening."
"There is a significant gap in understanding between generations."
To cause a gap or opening to appear; to break or separate something.
/ɡæp/
To make a gap or opening.
The earthquake gapped the road, making it impassable.
💡 Simply: If you forcefully pull something apart, like ripping a sheet of paper, you 'gap' it. It means to create a space where there wasn't one.
👶 For kids: To make a gap is like breaking something in a way that makes a space.
More Examples
The force of the explosion gapped the metal casing.
How It's Used
"The earthquake gapped the walls of the building."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
a gap year
A year taken off from studies, usually between high school and university or between undergraduate and postgraduate study, for traveling or working.
"Many students decide to take a gap year to explore the world."
bridge the gap
To reduce or eliminate a difference, disagreement, or lack of communication.
"The new initiative aims to bridge the gap between the company's departments."
close the gap
To reduce or eliminate a difference or disparity.
"The team worked hard to close the gap in the standings."
From Old Norse *gap*, meaning 'chasm, opening'. Related to the verb 'gape'.
The word 'gap' has been used since the 14th century, evolving from its Old Norse roots. It originally referred to an opening or chasm in the physical world.
Memory tip
Think of a physical opening – like a gap in your teeth.
Word Origin
"chasm, opening"