gulf

Everyday

1. A large area of sea that is partly surrounded by land, bigger than a bay (the Gulf of Mexico). tree →
2. A big difference or gap between people, groups or ideas (a gulf between rich and poor). tree →
3. A deep hole or opening in the ground (old or literary). tree →

In the lessons

In geography, gulfs are coastal features on maps: Gulf of Mexico, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Carpentaria (Australia), Gulf of St Lawrence (Canada). Warm currents like the Gulf Stream affect weather. In stories and talks a «gulf» is a gap between people who don't understand each other. Phrases: the Gulf, Gulf Stream, a wide gulf between.

Examples

• The Gulf of Mexico is south of the USA. tree →
• A gulf is like a very big bay. tree →
• The Gulf of Carpentaria is in the north of Australia. tree →
• The Gulf Stream carries warm water across the Atlantic. tree →
• There was a huge gulf between what he said and what he did. tree →
• Hurricanes often form over the warm Gulf waters. tree →
• The Lion was about to reply when suddenly they came to another gulf across the road. tree →

Note

«Gulf» vs «bay»: both are sea partly surrounded by land; a gulf is usually larger and deeper into the land. Don't confuse with «golf» (the sport) — they sound similar.

In Jewish tradition

Here it means a deep pit or opening, a yawning hole that swallows people.

Interpretation. The psalm pictures the wicked speaker's mouth as a grave, so deadly lies are compared to death.

Examples

• For there is no sincerity in their mouth; their inward part is a yawning gulf, their throat is an open sepulchre; they make smooth their tongue. (Writings PSA.5.10, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

«Gulf» vs «bay»: both are sea partly surrounded by land; a gulf is usually larger and deeper into the land. Don't confuse with «golf» (the sport) — they sound similar.