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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a long application
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a long application" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an application that has a considerable length, whether in terms of content, time taken to complete, or complexity. Example: "Submitting a long application for the grant can be time-consuming, but it's essential for securing funding."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(4)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
12 human-written examples
So instead of forcing renters to fill out a long application that the landlord probably won't read, applicants create a shorter profile on Cozy.
News & Media
Mr. Largay was selected from an initial group of about 250 luxury travel agents after a long application process and a series of interviews with the company.
News & Media
After a long application process which required potential operators to prove the strength of their ideas, their local partnerships and their business model, stations in the first nineteen locations are now preparing to launch their services – nineteen unique flavours and approaches to news, local life, entertainment and more.
News & Media
There's a long application process for entering the astronaut corps.
News & Media
A payday lender usually offers loans for fewer than 30 days, without a long application process.
News & Media
They found a slow boot time with a long application load time.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
48 human-written examples
This paper investigates the potential of using an electric turbocharger in a long haulage application during highway driving.
Science
If you are in the fortunate 5% that make it, you'll need to provide a a long form application and real life interview after you pass.
News & Media
Fifty people from around the world had been selected for a funded scholarship this year, after a two-part face -to-face interview process and a long paper application system.
News & Media
My first month as a senior was both the beginning of the end of my high school career and the beginning of a long college application process (don't worry: The List has been shortened to 16 schools now!).
News & Media
This might be a good approach to obtain membrane protein structures as a long term application for hybrid POMs.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider synonyms like "lengthy", "extensive", or "detailed" for variety and emphasis.
Common error
Avoid simply stating that the application is "long" without providing context. Instead, quantify the length (e.g., "a 20-page application") or specify the challenging aspects (e.g., "a long application requiring detailed financial information").
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a long application" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "application". It describes a characteristic of the application, specifically its length or duration. Ludwig confirms the phrase's usability.
Frequent in
News & Media
32%
Science
32%
Academia
12%
Less common in
Wiki
8%
Formal & Business
8%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "a long application" is a grammatically sound and generally acceptable way to describe an application that requires considerable time, effort, or detail. As Ludwig highlights, this phrase appears across diverse sources, from news outlets like The New York Times and TechCrunch to scientific publications. While not extremely frequent, its meaning is clear and consistently understood. Be specific about what aspect makes it "long", choosing synonyms like "lengthy", "extensive", or "detailed" for greater precision. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
lengthy application
Emphasizes the duration or physical length of the application.
extensive application
Highlights the comprehensive nature and detail required in the application.
complicated application
Focuses on the complexity and difficulty of completing the application.
detailed application
Stresses the need for thorough information and specifics in the application.
protracted application process
Highlights the extended timeframe involved in the application process itself.
time-consuming application
Focuses on the amount of time required to complete the application.
tedious application
Highlights the monotonous and perhaps repetitive nature of completing the application.
arduous application
Emphasizes the difficulty and effort involved in the application.
complex application form
Focuses on the form itself being intricate.
multi-stage application
Implies the application is split into several parts or phases.
FAQs
What does "a long application" mean?
The phrase "a long application" generally refers to an application process that is lengthy, either in terms of the time it takes to complete, the amount of information required, or the number of steps involved. It suggests that the applicant should expect a substantial investment of effort.
What can I say instead of "a long application"?
Alternatives include "lengthy application", "extensive application", or "detailed application". The best choice depends on the specific aspect of the application you want to emphasize.
Is it better to say "a lengthy application" or "a long application"?
Both "a long application" and "a lengthy application" are grammatically correct and commonly used. "Lengthy" might subtly emphasize the duration or extent more directly, but the choice is often a matter of personal preference.
Why are some applications "a long application"?
Applications may be "a long application" due to the need to gather significant information, assess complex qualifications, comply with regulatory requirements, or ensure fairness and thoroughness in the selection process.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested