What is gap? Pronunciation and usage in English

gap means . Learn how to pronounce and use gap through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of gap

gapnoun

/ɡap/
Definition & pronunciation of gap

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "gap" in English. There are two common pronunciations, and it depends on whether you're talking about a physical gap or the verb "to gap" (which is less common).

1. The Physical Gap (like a space or hole):

  • Pronunciation: /ɡæp/ (IPA – International Phonetic Alphabet)
  • How to say it: This is a two-syllable pronunciation.
    • "g" is pronounced like the "g" in "go".
    • "æ" (as in "cat") – this is a short, open "a" sound. It's crucial to get this sound right.
    • "p" is pronounced like the "p" in "pen".
  • Emphasis: The emphasis is usually on the first syllable ("gæ").

2. The Verb "To Gap" (meaning to split or separate):

  • Pronunciation: /ɡæpt/ (IPA)
  • How to say it: This is also a two-syllable pronunciation, but it's slightly different.
    • "g" is pronounced like the "g" in "go".
    • "æ" (as in "cat") – same short, open "a" sound.
    • "pt" – this is pronounced like "pt" – almost like "upt" but with a shorter "u" sound.
  • Emphasis: The emphasis is typically on the first syllable ("ɡæ").

Tips for Getting it Right:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you asking about the word "gap" as in a physical space, or are you interested in the verb "to gap"?

Usage and examples with the word gap in English

Let's break down how to use the word "gap" in English. It’s a surprisingly versatile word with a lot of different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by its common uses:

1. Physical Spaces – The Most Common Meaning

  • A break or space between things: This is probably the most frequent usage.
    • "There’s a gap in the fence." (A physical space)
    • “He cleared the gap between the two buildings.” (A space between structures)
    • “The turbine blades have a small gap that needs to be adjusted.” (A space within a mechanism)
    • "I saw a gap in her smile, suggesting sadness." (A space in a facial expression)

2. Time – Intervals

  • A period of time: Used to describe a pause or missing segment.
    • "There’s a gap in my memory from that night." (A missing period in recollection)
    • “The construction project will leave a gap in the road.” (A delay in the schedule)
    • “He’s been out of work for a long gap.” (A length of time without employment)

3. Figurative Meaning – Differences or Shortcomings

  • A difference, lack, or shortage: Often used to describe a deficiency.

    • "There's a gap in our understanding of the problem." (A lack of knowledge)
    • “The company is facing a skills gap.” (A deficiency in employee abilities)
    • "A gap in his education is holding him back." (A shortage of learning)
    • “There’s a gap between rich and poor families.” (A difference in wealth)

  • A disconnect or lack of connection:

    • “There’s a gap between what he says and what he does.” (He doesn't act in accordance with his words)

4. Specific Types of Gaps

  • Tooth Gap: The space between teeth. ("He has a charming tooth gap.")
  • Road Gap: A depression or indentation in a road surface. ("Be careful of the road gap there.")
  • Data Gap: A lack of information in a dataset. ("The study needs more data to fill the data gap.")

5. Phrasal Verbs with "Gap"

  • Close the gap: To reduce a difference or shortage. ("The company needs to close the skills gap.")
  • Widen the gap: To increase a difference. ("The wealth gap is widening.")
  • Fill the gap: To supply something that is missing. ("He filled the gap in the conversation with a relevant story.")

Tips for Using "Gap" Effectively:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "gap" is heavily influenced by the context. Pay attention to the surrounding words.
  • Synonyms: Consider synonyms like “space,” “interval,” “difference,” “shortage,” “lack,” or “disconnect” to ensure you're conveying the precise meaning.

Example Sentences (Combining Different Uses):

  • “The new highway will eliminate the gap in transportation between the two cities.” (Physical Space + Time)
  • "There’s a significant gap between her expectations and reality." (Figurative – Difference)
  • “He needs to close the gap in his knowledge of the subject.” (Phrasal Verb)

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you working with? (e.g., writing an essay, having a conversation, learning for a test?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're trying to use the word "gap"?

Synonyms for the word gap

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