temperature difference; difference in temperature
Literal physical difference in temperature between two objects, places, or times.
There is a big temperature difference between inside and outside.
gap in enthusiasm; difference in attitude; temperature gap
Metaphorical use for a gap in passion, interest, commitment, or emotional warmth between people or groups.
This material is resistant to temperature differences.
There is a gap in enthusiasm for work between him and me.
The difference in attitude between the boss and the subordinates became a problem.
ocean thermal energy conversion; OTEC
Compound of 温度 (temperature) and 差 (difference). The metaphorical sense extends the physical temperature gap to emotional or attitudinal gaps.