Words / C2

in-TURST-is/ɪnˈtɜːstɪs/

An interstice is a small intervening space; a gap (formal): the interstices of the timetable, an interstice in the log. A gap (already in the dictionary) is everyday a space or difference; space (already in the dictionary) is an empty area. A modicum (already in the dictionary) is a small amount, of quantity not of a crack. This batch: propinquity is nearness — the opposite flavour of a gap. A missing date is none, not a small space.

Meaning

A small intervening space; a gap (formal).

Examples

• “Do not call a missing embargo date an interstice; it is a blank.”
• “A gap is a space or a difference (already in B1). Space is an empty area (already in A2). A modicum is a small amount (already in C2). Propinquity is nearness (this batch) — the contrast. A short log can still be complete. Empty cells are not a small gap; they are none. Write the date or write that it is missing.”

Good to know

A small gap (formal). Everyday: gap / space (already in this dictionary). Close: modicum (amount, not a crack — already in C2). This batch: propinquity (nearness). Tiny ≠ blank.

Near in meaning

gap, cranny, crevice, interval

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