Is god-of-the-gaps a formal phrase?

It is formal enough for essays and debates, but it also sounds critical.

Is god-of-the-gaps always religious?

It is usually used in discussions about religion and science, but it is mainly a critique.

Can I use god-of-the-gaps in writing?

Yes, especially in academic, argumentative, or analytical writing.

What is the difference between god-of-the-gaps and faith?

Faith is belief without proof. God-of-the-gaps means using God to explain an unknown fact too quickly.

← Dictionary

god-of-the-gaps

/ˌɡɒd əv ðə ɡæps/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A way of explaining something unknown by saying God did it because science does not yet have an answer. People often use it in criticism.

He called the argument a god-of-the-gaps explanation.
That claim sounds like god-of-the-gaps reasoning.
Science should not become a god-of-the-gaps shortcut.

Adinary Nuance

God-of-the-gaps is not the same as a simple religious belief. It is used when someone fills a missing scientific explanation with God too quickly. It is also different from mystery, which only means “we do not know yet.” Writers use this phrase when they want to sound critical or analytical.

In other languages

Vietnamese: chúa lấp chỗ trống
Spanish: dios de los huecos
Chinese: 缝隙中的上帝
Japanese: 隙間の神
Korean: 빈틈의 신

Etymology

The phrase comes from modern religious and philosophical debate. It became common in English in the 20th century as a criticism of weak explanations.

Common phrases

god-of-the-gaps argumentgod-of-the-gaps thinkinga god-of-the-gaps explanation

Synonyms

placeholder explanation stopgap explanation ad hoc explanation

Frequently asked questions

Is god-of-the-gaps a formal phrase?: It is formal enough for essays and debates, but it also sounds critical.
Is god-of-the-gaps always religious?: It is usually used in discussions about religion and science, but it is mainly a critique.
Can I use god-of-the-gaps in writing?: Yes, especially in academic, argumentative, or analytical writing.
What is the difference between god-of-the-gaps and faith?: Faith is belief without proof. God-of-the-gaps means using God to explain an unknown fact too quickly.