Literal:
* The ship sailed across the gulf to reach the distant island.
* The gulf was teeming with life, from tiny plankton to enormous whales.
* The fishing boats were anchored in the calm waters of the gulf.
Figurative:
* A gulf of misunderstanding separated the two friends after their argument.
* The politician's words created a gulf between her and the public.
* The cultural gulf between the two countries made communication difficult.
Specific:
* The Gulf of Mexico is a rich source of oil and gas.
* The Persian Gulf is a major shipping route for oil.
* The Gulf Stream is a powerful ocean current that influences climate.