Definition

Noun A very extended or seemingly endless duration; a substantial period.

Usage

This noun phrase is used to emphasize that a significant amount of time has passed or will pass. It is commonly used with prepositions like for or in. * We haven't seen each other for a long time. * It took a long time to finish the project. * I've been waiting a long time for this opportunity.

Examples

• "After a long time apart, the friends were thrilled to reunite."
• "Learning a new language well requires a long time and consistent practice."
• "It's been a long time since I visited my hometown."

Advanced Usage

• "It's a long time since...": A construction used to state that a lot of time has elapsed since a past event.
  • It's a long time since I ate at that restaurant.
• "It will be a long time before...": Used to predict that a considerable period will pass before a future event happens.
  • It will be a long time before this technology becomes affordable.

Variants and Related Words

• Long-time (adjective, often hyphenated): Describing something that has existed or lasted for a long period.
  • He is a long-time supporter of the charity.
• Longstanding (adjective): Having existed for a long time.
  • The two companies have a longstanding partnership.

Synonyms

• Ages
• Years
• An eternity
• A considerable while
• Eons

Related Phrases

• For the longest time: An informal phrase emphasizing a very extended period, often with a sense of personal experience.
  • I believed that story for the longest time.
• In a long time: Used in negative or interrogative sentences to talk about a recent period.
  • I haven't heard that song in a long time.
  • Have you seen him in a long time?

Noun

1. a prolonged period of time
   • we've known each other for ages
   • I haven't been there for years and years