brecha
/ˈbɾet͡ʃa/
The English word 'gap' is translated into Spanish as brecha.
brecha refers to a vacant space or time. It is commonly used metaphorically to describe a disparity or difference between two groups, such as a social or economic gap. For example, you can use the phrase cerrar la brecha to say 'to close the gap'.
Meaning: vacant space or time (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of brecha is brechas.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbɾetʃa/
Did you know?
- The phrase abrir brecha is often used idiomatically to mean 'blazing a trail' or being a pioneer in a new field. It suggests not just finding a gap, but forcing one open for others to follow.
- The Spanish word brecha shares the same ancestral root as the English word 'breach', both originating from the Frankish word for 'break'.
- In military history, a brecha specifically refers to the hole smashed into a fortress wall to allow an army to enter. This historical usage is why the word is used today for gaps that must be 'closed' or 'bridged'.
Examples in context
- La brecha entre ricos y pobres se está ampliando.The gap between the haves and the have nots is widening.This sentence shows how brecha describes the widening disparity between different social classes.Tatoeba #1917748 by zahurdias, translation #1917745 by zahurdias
- En el subterráneo de Londres hay una advertencia de "cuidado con la brecha" al abordar el tren.In the London underground there is a warning to "mind the gap" when boarding the train.This sentence uses brecha in the context of a warning regarding a physical space.Tatoeba #1463186 by nullsoul9, translation #29280 by Shiawase
- Creo que las economías avanzadas aún necesitan hacer más para cerrar la brecha entre las naciones ricas y pobres de todo el mundo.I believe advanced economies still need to do more to close the gap between rich and poor nations around the globe.This sentence illustrates the use of brecha when discussing the need to bridge economic differences between nations.Tatoeba #8302011 by GuidoW, translation #5774034 by Hybrid
- Hay una brecha importante entre las clases sociales en este país.There is a significant gap between social classes in this country.
- Es importante darle espacio a la reflexión entre una decisión y otra.It is important to give space for reflection between one decision and another.
- Hay un vacío de conocimiento en esta área de estudio.There is a knowledge gap in this area of study.
- El equipo de científicos descubrió una fisura en la superficie del hielo.The team of scientists discovered a gap in the surface of the ice.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are discussing their schedules for a meeting.
- DanielTengo una brecha en mi agenda a las diez.I have a gap in my schedule at ten.
- MaríaPerfecto, yo también estoy libre a esa hora.Perfect, I am also free at that time.
- DanielEntonces usemos esa brecha para revisar el plan.Then let's use that gap to review the plan.
- MaríaDe acuerdo, Daniel, nos vemos en la oficina.All right, Daniel, I'll see you at the office.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry brecha, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries brecha, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
