English Reference
Verb

bridging

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈbɹɪdʒɪŋ/ UK /bɹˈɪdʒɪŋ/ bridg·ing UK spelling bridgings Architecture

v.to connect two different things or fill a gap between them. You use this when you want to bring two separate ideas, groups, or places together.

v.to connect or reduce the distance between two distinct entities, concepts, or physical points. Often used metaphorically to describe reconciliation or the synthesis of disparate ideas.


SIMPLE

The new project is bridging the gap between art and science.

CONTEXTUAL

The diplomat spent years bridging the cultural divide between the two nations to ensure a lasting peace treaty.

COMPLEX

By bridging the divide between traditional craftsmanship and modern digital fabrication, the architect created a structure that felt both timeless and technologically advanced.

Usage

Transitive verb; typically takes a direct object representing a gap, divide, or distance.

Researchers often break social capital down into bonding (close friends and family), bridging (relationships that connect people across different social groups or networks), and linking (connections to people with power and resources).

The Guardian· 4 Sept 2026

And second, that it’s packed.” Skorton called the overall event a “very important experiment” in bridging conversations between the public and the Smithsonian.

Smithsonian Magazine· 8 Jun 2016
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated