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Gap: meaning, definitions and examples

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gap

 

[ ɡæp ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

in education

A period of time where there is a break in learning or teaching, often used for students to work independently or catch up on missed work.

Synonyms

break, interval, pause

Examples of usage

  • During the gap between classes, students have the opportunity to study in the library.
  • The teacher gave the students a gap to complete their assignments.
Context #2 | Noun

in a physical space

An opening or space between two objects or points.

Synonyms

hole, opening, space

Examples of usage

  • There was a gap in the fence where the dog escaped.
  • She squeezed through the narrow gap in the rocks.
Context #3 | Verb

in trading or finance

To create a difference between two prices, rates, or values.

Synonyms

differ, diverge, vary

Examples of usage

  • The company aims to gap its prices competitively in the market.
  • The stock market gapped overnight due to the breaking news.

Translations

Translations of the word "gap" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lacuna

🇮🇳 अंतर

🇩🇪 Lücke

🇮🇩 celah

🇺🇦 розрив

🇵🇱 luka

🇯🇵 隙間 (すきま)

🇫🇷 écart

🇪🇸 brecha

🇹🇷 boşluk

🇰🇷 틈

🇸🇦 فجوة

🇨🇿 mezera

🇸🇰 medzera

🇨🇳 差距 (chājù)

🇸🇮 vrzel

🇮🇸 bil

🇰🇿 аралық

🇬🇪 ნაპრალი

🇦🇿 boşluq

🇲🇽 brecha

Etymology

The word 'gap' originated from the Old Norse 'gap', meaning an empty space or an open mouth. It has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving to represent various forms of openings, breaks, or differences. The concept of a gap has been prevalent in multiple fields, from education to finance, symbolizing a space for opportunity or differentiation.

See also: gaping, gaps.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,188, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.