gap
12 synonyms and 0 antonyms for gap, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An empty space or opening between two things, or a break in something continuous.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use gap
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old Norse gap ("an empty space, chasm"), related to gapa, "to gape" — gap and gape share the same root.
Full origin of gap →Frequently asked questions
What does “gap” mean?
The word “gap” means an empty space or opening between two things, or a break in something continuous. In plain terms, a space where something is missing, or the difference between two amounts or situations.
How do you pronounce “gap”?
“Gap” is pronounced gap (/ɡæp/ in IPA).
How do you use “gap” in a sentence?
Here is “gap” used in a sentence: “There was a gap in the fence where the wood had rotted away.”
What is another word for “gap”?
Words with a similar meaning to “gap” include clearing, hole, opening, space, window and interim.
What part of speech is “gap”?
Depending on how it is used, “gap” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “gap” come from?
The word “gap” comes from Old Norse. From Old Norse gap ("an empty space, chasm"), related to gapa, "to gape" — gap and gape share the same root.
Is “gap” a common word?
“Gap” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “gap” have?
“Gap” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an empty space or opening between two things, or a break in something continuous.
What is an example of a gap?
A gap can be physical or figurative. Physical examples include a gap in a fence, a gap between two parked cars, or a gap between your teeth. Figurative examples include a gap in someone's knowledge, a pay gap between groups, or a gap in the market for a new product.
What are the types of gap?
Gaps fall into two broad groups. Literal gaps are physical openings or spaces, like a gap in a hedge. Figurative gaps describe missing or uneven areas in abstract things, such as a generation gap, a skills gap, or a gap in a story where information is left out.
What is the difference between a gap and a space?
A space is any empty area, and it is often neutral or even welcome. A gap is more specific: an opening or break between two things, or a missing piece in something that should be continuous. A gap usually suggests that something is absent or incomplete.