a long time
/ə lɔŋ taɪm/
Meaning
This phrase refers to an extended period of duration. It is used to describe events, actions, or states that last for a significant number of hours, days, months, or years. It is very common in both spoken and written English.
Examples
-
We had to wait for a long time at the doctor's office.
We had to wait for a long time at the doctor's office.
-
I haven't seen my childhood friend in a long time.
I haven't seen my childhood friend in a long time.
-
Learning to play the piano takes a long time.
Learning to play the piano takes a long time.
-
They lived in London for a long time before moving here.
They lived in London for a long time before moving here.
-
It will be a long time before we can travel again.
It will be a long time before we can travel again.
Common Mistakes
-
✗ I have been waiting for long time.
✓ I have been waiting for a long time.
Learners often forget the indefinite article 'a' in this phrase.
-
✗ It took much time to finish.
✓ It took a long time to finish.
While 'much time' is grammatically correct in negatives and questions, 'a long time' is much more natural in positive statements.
Related Expressions
Practice
-
I haven't been to the cinema in ___.
💡 Think of a phrase meaning an extended duration of time.
Show answer
a long time
-
It takes ___ to build a house.
💡 It does not happen quickly.
Show answer
a long time