long time: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘long time’ mean?
An idiom *long time* means a significant period or duration. It is often used to emphasize the length of time that has passed or will pass.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "term of years" refers to a specific period or duration of time, typically associated with a legal or contractual agreement, that lasts several years.
The idiom "quite a bit" means a large or significant amount. It is often used to emphasize the extent or quantity of something.
An idiom that means to expand or increase the length or content of something, often by adding unnecessary or unimportant details.
The idiom "pad out" is a widely used English expression that has its roots in the 19th century.
The idiom "over and over again" means repeatedly doing or experiencing something.
The idiom "on in years" refers to someone who is old or elderly.
The idiom "on in years" is a phrase that describes someone who is old or advanced in age. It conveys the concept of aging and is commonly used in American English.
The idiom "on end" means continuously or without interruption.
The idiom *one and the same* means that two or more things or people are identical or indistinguishable from each other.
The idiom "once in a while" means occasionally or infrequently.
Once in a while is an idiomatic expression that means occasionally or infrequently. It conveys the idea of an irregular occurrence or a deviation from a usual pattern.
The idiom "old as the hills" refers to something that is extremely old, often implying that it has been around for a very long time and is therefore considered outdated or out of touch with current trends or ideas.
The expression "old as the hills" is an idiom that has been in use for many centuries. The exact origin of this phrase is uncertain, as idioms tend to evolve over time without a specific date or source. However, it is widely accepted that this idiom has stood the test of time.
The idiom "of late" refers to something that has occurred or been happening in the recent or immediate past.
Deciphering the Enigma
The idiom "long time" is a commonly used phrase in the English language, conveying a sense of duration and familiarity. It can be used in various contexts, both in literal and figurative senses. In its literal sense, "long time" refers to a significant length of time that has passed. For example, someone might say, "I haven't seen you in a long time," to express that they haven't had contact with someone for a considerable period. This usage highlights the duration of the separation and may evoke a sense of nostalgia or longing for the past.
The idiom "long time" can also be combined with other words or phrases to provide additional context and meaning. The expression "long time no see" is a common greeting used when meeting someone after a prolonged period of separation. It adds an informal and friendly tone to the interaction, signaling a sense of familiarity and connection.
Add information about how long time is related to these idioms:
"in the long term" is another idiom that is related to "long time." It refers to a perspective or approach that considers the future and emphasizes long-term consequences or outcomes. When thinking in the long term, people take into account the potential effects and benefits of their actions over an extended period. For example, a company might implement strategies that prioritize sustainability in the long term, recognizing the importance of preserving resources and minimizing environmental impact for future generations.
Another related idiom is "long since." This phrase is used to indicate that a particular event or action happened a long time ago and is no longer relevant or applicable. It emphasizes the passage of time and suggests that the event is in the distant past. For example, someone might say, "That issue has been resolved long since," meaning that the problem was addressed and resolved a considerable time ago.
The idiom "as the day is long" is a colorful expression that emphasizes the length or duration of a particular characteristic. It is often used to describe someone's behavior or personality trait that is present throughout the day, nonstop. For example, if someone says, "He argues as the day is long," they are suggesting that the person argues continuously and without end. This idiom highlights the enduring nature of the described characteristic.
The final idiom related to "long time" is "long in the tooth." This expression typically refers to someone who is old or aging. The phrase originated from the observation that as horses age, their teeth grow longer. Therefore, being "long in the tooth" came to symbolize the passage of time and the signs of aging. It can be used to describe people or things that show signs of wear or age, often in a lighthearted or humorous manner.
The idiom "long time" is a versatile expression that conveys a sense of duration and familiarity. It can be used in various contexts, both literal and figurative, to evoke a sense of nostalgia, connection, and the passing of time. Additionally, it is often combined with other words or phrases to enhance its meaning. The related idioms "in the long term," "long since," "as the day is long," and "long in the tooth" further expand upon the concept of "long time" and provide additional depth and nuance to the English language. These idioms highlight the importance of considering long-term consequences, the passage of time, enduring characteristics, and the inevitable signs of aging. They make the language more colorful, expressive, and engaging for speakers and listeners alike.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "long time" can be used in a sentence:
- I haven't seen him in a long time.
- It took a long time to finish the project.
- We've known each other for a long time.
More "Duration" idioms
