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.

---

Etymology

Origin of bridge the gap

First recorded in 1855–60, in the literal sense

Example Sentences

Vision to Learn, a nonprofit, created a mobile eye clinic to help bridge the gap between kids failing school vision screenings and getting glasses.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

"This technology can bridge the gap between conventional diesel use and a cleaner energy future," said co-author Professor Emeka Emmanuel Oguzie.

From Science Daily • Mar. 13, 2026

The partnerships with consultants aim to bridge the gap between what AI can potentially do and what it is used for today.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

But she can often struggle to bridge the gap between her longer-term projections, including a forecast for “tens of billions” in annual AI revenue over the next few years, and the very near term.

From Barron's • Feb. 4, 2026

She looked to Grace’s father again, someone to help her bridge the gap between words.

From "Far from the Tree" by Robin Benway