Gaps: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a space or opening between two things, often in contexts where something is missing or there is a discontinuity.

• There are gaps in the data set.
• Mind the gaps between the floorboards.

Used to refer to an unoccupied area or room available for use. Can be physical or figurative.

• There's enough space for a new sofa in the living room.
• She needed some space to think about her decision.

Refers to a space or gap that allows entry or access, or a beginning of an event, opportunity, or period.

• The cave had a narrow opening.
• There is an opening in the company for a new position.

Describes a period of time between two events or activities, usually in a formal or scheduled context.

• The music piece has an interval of silence between movements.
• There is a five-minute interval between classes.

Refers to a temporary pause or interruption in an ongoing activity, often used in work or academic settings.

• Let's take a break after this meeting.
• She needs a break from studying.

Best used to describe physical or metaphorical spaces that are missing or lacking between things.

• There are gaps in the fence that need to be fixed.
• The gaps in our knowledge about space are vast.

Commonly used to indicate that things were once together and now are apart, often referring to both physical separation and abstract divisions.

• The teacher will separate the students into groups.
• They decided to separate their professional and personal lives.

Mostly used to talk about separating something into parts, whether physically, mathematically, or figuratively. It often has a negative connotation when referring to people or groups.

• We should divide the cake evenly among everyone.
• This issue has the potential to divide the community.

Used when explicitly making room or creating an opportunity for something new, either physically or figuratively.

• We need to create space in the garage for the new car.
• Let's create space in the schedule for some relaxation time.

Commonly used to refer to physical structures that connect two places or metaphorically to describe actions or things that connect people or ideas.

• They built a new bridge over the river.
• We need to bridge the gap between the two communities.