Definition

Adverb: * In a lengthy or prolix manner; for a long time or in excessive detail.

Usage

The adverb "lengthily" is used to describe an action—most commonly speaking, writing, or discussing—that is done in an overly long, detailed, or wordy way. It often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting the communication could have been more concise.

Examples

• The lawyer spoke lengthily about the precedent, testing the jury's patience.
• The report was lengthily detailed, making it difficult to extract the key findings.
• He explained his theory lengthily, covering every minor point.
• The meeting dragged on lengthily without reaching a conclusion.

Advanced Usage

• "To go on lengthily": This is a common collocation meaning to continue speaking or discussing something for an excessive amount of time.
  • The debate went on lengthily into the night.

Variants and Related Words

• Lengthy (adjective): Of considerable or unusual length, especially in time; often excessively long.
  • We had a lengthy discussion about the budget.
• At length (idiomatic phrase): For a long time; in great detail. This is a more common and neutral alternative to "lengthily."
  • She spoke at length about her travels.

Synonyms

• Prolixly: In a tediously lengthy manner.
• Verbosely: Using more words than needed.
• Extensively: In a far-reaching or comprehensive manner (can be neutral or positive).
• Exhaustively: In a thorough, complete manner (often positive).

Antonyms

• Concisely: In a brief and comprehensive manner.
• Succinctly: In a compact and precise manner.
• Briefly: For a short time; using few words.

Adverb

1. in a lengthy or prolix manner
   • the argument went on lengthily
   • she talked at length about the problem