Words / B1

GAP/ɡæp/

A gap is a space or difference between two things or groups: a gap between the buildings; a gap in the market; the gender pay gap. A hole is usually in a surface; a difference is more abstract. Fill / close / bridge a gap are common verbs. Generation gap and gap year (a year off before university, especially in the UK) are set phrases. Gappy is rare; use a gap in.

Meaning

A space or difference between two things or groups.

Examples

• “There is a gap between the two buildings.”
• “The report highlights a gap in the market for cheap tickets.”
• “She took a gap year before starting university.”

Good to know

a gap between / in. fill / close / bridge a gap. UK: gap year. Pay / generation gap. Physical hole: hole.

Near in meaning

space

New