a long trial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a long trial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a legal proceeding that takes an extended period of time or a difficult experience that requires endurance. Example: "After a long trial, the jury finally reached a verdict that surprised everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The people of Iraq are emerging from a long trial.

The New York Times

A long trial looms, but there are some accepted truths.

The New York Times

It is arrived at after a long trial and error procedure to fulfil frequency domain requirements.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

"Generally the jury won't even notice on such a long trial," Mr. Sorkin said.

The New York Times

A long trial ensued, costing a million dollars in lawyer fees.

The New York Times

For me, in many ways, that is enough ahead of a long trial.

The Guardian

Six of my clients were due to face a long trial starting today.

The Guardian

Last week, after a long trial, Ogmen was sentenced to two life imprisonments, one for each murder.

The Guardian

He added only that her guilty plea had saved the federal government the "expense and burden" of a long trial.

The New York Times

Lifland presumably pushed the Mets and Picard into mediation because he wants to avoid a long trial, legal experts said.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

For millennia, changing a breed's genetics through husbandry required a long trial-and-error process.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a trial, consider whether "long" is the most accurate descriptor. Alternatives like "complex" or "protracted" might better capture specific aspects of the legal proceeding.

Common error

Avoid using "long" generically. If the trial is not just extended in time but also complicated in nature, specify that complexity with alternative words like "intricate" or "convoluted."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a long trial" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig shows that this phrase is used to describe the duration of a legal proceeding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a long trial" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a protracted legal proceeding. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While generally neutral in register, its specific connotation can vary depending on context. Consider alternatives like "a lengthy trial" or "a protracted trial" for added emphasis. When using "a long trial", ensure it accurately reflects the core characteristic of the trial: its duration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lengthy trial

Replaces "long" with "lengthy", emphasizing the duration.

a protracted trial

Uses "protracted" to highlight the drawn-out nature of the trial.

an extended trial

Substitutes "long" with "extended", indicating an increased duration.

a prolonged trial

Replaces "long" with "prolonged", stressing the extended timeframe.

a time-consuming trial

Focuses on the amount of time the trial requires.

a drawn-out trial

Highlights the dragging or lingering nature of the trial.

a complex trial

Shifts the focus to the intricate and complicated nature of the trial.

an arduous legal battle

Uses "arduous" to convey the difficult and strenuous nature of the legal process.

a burdensome legal process

Highlights the difficulty and onerous nature of the legal process.

a grinding legal case

Uses "grinding" to describe the wearing and relentless nature of the case.

FAQs

How can I use "a long trial" in a sentence?

You can use "a long trial" to describe a legal proceeding that lasts for an extended period. For example: "The defendant was exhausted after "a long trial"."

What are some alternatives to "a long trial"?

Some alternatives include "a lengthy trial", "a protracted trial", or "an extended trial", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What makes a trial considered "a long trial"?

A trial is considered "a long trial" based on the amount of time it takes to complete, often involving numerous witnesses, extensive evidence, and complex legal arguments.

Is it better to avoid "a long trial" if possible?

Avoiding "a long trial" often depends on the circumstances. Sometimes, settling out of court can save time and resources, while other times, a full trial is necessary to achieve justice.