What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gap
Example
There's a gap in the fence where the dog keeps escaping. [gap: noun]
Example
There's a gap in my understanding of this topic that I need to fill. [gap: noun]
Example
There's a gap between what he says and what he does. [gap: noun]
break
Example
Let's take a break and have some coffee. [break: noun]
Example
I accidentally broke the vase when I bumped into the table. [broke: past tense verb]
Example
The news of the scandal caused a break in their friendship. [break: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Break is more commonly used than gap in everyday language. Break is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gap is less common and often used in academic or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between gap and break?
While gap is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, break is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.