bridge the gap

American  

[brij thuh gap] / ˈbrɪdʒ ðə ˈgæp /

idiom

1. to create a connection between things that are separated either physically or metaphorically.

   The mentorship program helps bridge the gap between middle school and high school.

2. to fill in a gap or lack, as of time, money, understanding, or opportunity.

   Student loans allow many to bridge the gap and be able to afford a college education.

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Etymology

Origin of bridge the gap

First recorded in 1855–60, in the literal sense

Example Sentences

He was openly political, urging grassroots activists around the world to bridge the gap between rich and poor while calling on wealthier countries to better protect the environment.

From The Wall Street Journal

Shooting Benson Boone’s trademark leaping acrobatics at his Coachella debut this year gave me the chance to bridge the gap between musical generations.

From Los Angeles Times

How and when do you think China might bridge the gap in performance between its technological development and its faltering economy?

From The Wall Street Journal

And sometimes if something feels far away, I do have to be like, “OK, well, how do I bridge the gap to this thing? How can I relate to it? Oh, well, I guess, yeah, I had to deal with this in my life. And how did I respond to it? Well, how would Victor respond to it? How would I respond to it if I had Victor’s circumstances?”

From Los Angeles Times

She notes unemployment benefits can take a few weeks to kick in, and even modest savings can help bridge the gap.

From The Wall Street Journal