Definition of Long (meaning 1 of 3 — adjective)
Quick Meaning of Long
Something that measures a lot from the beginning to the end; not short.
Detailed Definition of Long
Having great distance from one end to the other; measuring or extending far in space.
How to Pronounce Long
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with the /ɔŋ/ sound, rhymes with 'song' or 'wrong'. Stress on the vowel.
Watch out: Some learners mispronounce with /ɔ/ as in 'lot'; make the sound longer and rounder.
Other Meanings of Long
“Long” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Long as an adverb
For many hours or days; not for a short time; taking a lot of time.
long ago
#3 Long as a verb
To want something very much or to miss someone very much.
long for home
Origin and Etymology of Long
From Old English 'long', Germanic origin, related to 'length'.
How to Use Long in a Sentence
Each example shows “long” in the meaning “Something that measures a lot from the beginning…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The river is very long and runs across three countries.”
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“She wore a long dress to the formal dinner.”
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“The long journey across the desert required careful planning and supplies.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Long
Common Synonyms for Long
Smart Synonyms for Long — When to Use Each
- extended
- for things stretched out in space or time
- lengthy
- for something that takes considerable duration
- vast
- for enormous distances or areas
Antonyms of Long
Common Collocations with Long
These phrases pair with “long” in everyday English:
- long distance
- long time
- long hair
- long journey
- long list
Common Mistakes When Using Long
Even fluent speakers slip up with “long”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I need to wait a long time until the train arrives.
- ✓ Correct: I need to wait a long time for the train to arrive.
- Why: Use 'for' not 'until' when describing a duration; 'until' marks an endpoint.
- ✗ Wrong: The long of the table is two meters.
- ✓ Correct: The length of the table is two meters.
- Why: Use noun 'length' to measure distances, not adjective 'long' as a noun.
Other Forms of Long
Frequently Asked Questions About Long
What is the meaning of "Long"?
Something that measures a lot from the beginning to the end; not short.
How do you pronounce "Long"?
The IPA is /lɔŋ/. One syllable with the /ɔŋ/ sound, rhymes with 'song' or 'wrong'. Stress on the vowel.
What part of speech is "Long"?
"Long" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Long"?
Common synonyms include extended, lengthy, distant.
How do you use "Long" in a sentence?
For example: "The river is very long and runs across three countries."