a long length of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a long length of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a measurement or extent of something, typically in a physical context. Example: "We need to purchase a long length of cable to complete the installation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Wherever Emmanuel Morantus goes, a long length of plastic tubing trails behind him.

The New York Times

A rider needs to consider whether to ride with a long length of leg or a short jockey-style length.

The New York Times

The signal is then transmitted over a long length of fibre as a stream of light pulses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most disconcerting thing, however, is a long length of vacuum-cleaner hose that snakes from a doorway and between the speakers to the pianola.

The Guardian - Arts

I noticed that, from the rafters, hung everything you'd need for a life in the forest: gourds, bows, arrows, and a long length of snakeskin.

The Guardian - Travel

Taliban members ran up from behind and began to beat her head and back with a long length of thick, metal cable.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

To derive the synthetic unit hydrograph for the watershed, the data such as area (A), longest length of stream flow path (L) and length along the main stream from the gauging station to a point opposite the center of gravity of the watershed (L ca) are determined.

Applied Water Science

It was found that length of stay had a skewed distribution, with a minority of patients having a very long length of stay.

BMC Infectious Diseases

That day, my walk took me into the trading store to buy a good long length of wire for a snare.

The New Yorker

In the basement of a labyrinthine warehouse, a woman lies on a hospital bed while an unfeasibly long length of ribbon unspools from her mouth.

The Guardian - Music

Since bacteriophage SuMu's G + C content is not much different than its host's chromosome G + C content, it can be concluded that SuMu has been associated with H. parasuis for a relatively long length of time [ 10].

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "a long length of" followed by a specific material (e.g., "a long length of rope", "a long length of wire") to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "a long length of" to describe abstract concepts or quantities that cannot be physically measured. For instance, instead of saying "a long length of time", use "a long period of time".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a long length of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying the extent or measurement of a physical object. The Ludwig AI analysis indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a long length of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, primarily employed to describe the physical measurement or extent of tangible objects. It appears most commonly in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it's followed by a specific material (e.g., "a long length of rope") for clarity. Avoid applying it to abstract concepts or non-physical quantities. Alternatives such as "a significant stretch of" or "an extended duration of" may be more appropriate depending on the context. Remember to use precise language and consider your audience when choosing between "a long length of" and its alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant stretch of

Implies continuous expanse or distance, suitable for physical contexts.

an extended duration of

Replaces "length" with "duration", focusing on time rather than physical measurement.

a considerable extent of

Emphasizes the size or degree, rather than the specific measurement of length.

a considerable measure of

Indicates a significant degree or amount, less specific than "length."

a substantial piece of

Focuses on a portion or segment, applicable when the material composition is relevant.

a sizable segment of

Emphasizes a notable portion or part, rather than the overall measurement.

a good amount of

General quantity, less precise than "length" but conveys a similar sense of magnitude.

a vast quantity of

Highlights the abundance or volume, shifting from linear measurement to overall quantity.

a prolonged period of

Shifts the focus to duration, suitable when discussing time rather than physical dimensions.

an expansive reach of

Implies a broad scope or influence, rather than physical length.

FAQs

How can I use "a long length of" in a sentence?

Use "a long length of" to describe the extent or measurement of physical objects. For example, "The electrician needed "a long length of wire" to complete the installation."

What are some alternatives to "a long length of"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "an extended duration of" (for time), "a significant stretch of" (for physical distance), or "a good amount of" (for general quantities).

Is it correct to use "a long length of time"?

While understandable, "a long length of time" is not the most precise phrasing. It's better to say "a long period of time" or "a long time".

When is it appropriate to use "a long length of"?

It is best used to describe tangible items that can be measured in terms of length, such as "a long length of rope" or "a long length of fabric". Consider alternatives for non-physical quantities.