Definition

Noun: 1. A major and significant separation or difference: This is the primary figurative meaning. It refers to a profound and often unbridgeable gap between two groups, ideas, eras, or conditions. 2. [Specific Geographical Term]: The principal watershed of a continent, especially (capitalized as Great Divide) the series of mountain ridges forming the Continental Divide of North America, primarily along the Rocky Mountains.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Figurative):

  • The digital revolution created a great divide between those with internet access and those without.
  • There is a great divide in public opinion on this political issue.
  • The book explores the great divide between theory and practice in modern medicine.

• Noun (Geographical):

  • Hikers crossed the Great Divide on their trek through the Rockies.
  • Rivers east of the Great Divide flow toward the Atlantic Ocean.

Advanced Usage

• "The Great Divide": When capitalized, it most commonly refers specifically to the Continental Divide of the Americas. It can also be used as a proper name for a specific, significant point of division in other contexts (e.g., a historical event, a philosophical concept).
  • Crossing the Great Divide was a milestone for the pioneers.
  • The fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized crossing a Great Divide in European history.

Variants and Related Words

• Divide (n): A line or point of separation. (e.g., )
• Chasm (n): A deep fissure or gap; used figuratively like "great divide" but often implies a more alarming or catastrophic separation.
• Gulf (n): A deep, wide gap; used figuratively to mean a large difference. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Chasm
• Gulf
• Rift
• Schism
• Disparity

Related Idioms

• A world apart: Emphasizes two things being completely different and separate, similar to being on opposite sides of a great divide.
  • Their lifestyles are a world apart.
• On opposite sides of the fence: Describes people or groups with opposing views, separated by a metaphorical barrier.
  • The two politicians are on opposite sides of the fence regarding taxation.

Noun

1. that part of the continental divide formed by the Rocky Mountains in the United States