an extra length

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extra length" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an additional measurement or distance beyond what is standard or expected. Example: "The fabric comes in an extra length to accommodate larger projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Also at hand is an extra length of chain.

The New York Times

It was found that an extra length change in the specimens occurs during the transformation as a result of transformation-induced plasticity.

Acta Materialia

Manipulating the 554,400 outputs of crossover because of an extra length parameter needs more processing.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

At higher effect-yarn overfeeds, there is an extra length of effect-yarn filaments available for loop formation.

Fashion and Textiles

We call it The Lillibridge Gut and some of us insist it's due to an extra length of intestine, but somehow I doubt it.

Huffington Post

Now, I'll fully admit I have limited experience covering political rallies live, but this was the first time I'd ever seen a candidate go to such an extra length to reach the people who didn't get in.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"I don't know if it will be a huge advantage having a little extra length," Mickelson said.

The New York Times - Sports

Personally, I find the DS's stock stylus a bit short — so a little extra length would be good, and I wouldn't mind having my initials in gangster letters on it either.

TechCrunch

Be sure to add a little extra length for the overhang.

WikiHow

Trace around your index finger, adding a little extra length to the top to match the length of the middle finger.

WikiHow

When you get to the end on the other side (back to your forehead), add a little extra length to your measurement, and then cut the piece of extension.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When specifying measurements, be precise. For instance, instead of saying "add an extra length of fabric", specify "add an extra length of 2 inches of fabric".

Common error

Avoid using "an extra length" in overly general contexts where the specific type of length isn't clear. For example, instead of saying "the project required an extra length", clarify by saying "the project required an extra length of cable" or "an extra length of time".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extra length" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition or a direct object, describing an additional dimension or duration. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

33%

Science

26%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extra length" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote an additional measurement or duration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's most commonly found in News & Media, Wiki and Scientific contexts, though it maintains a neutral register suitable for various writing styles. While "an extra length" is valid, specify what kind of length (cable, time, fabric) you are referring to. Consider using synonyms such as "additional length" or "longer length" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

additional length

Replaces "extra" with "additional", maintaining the same meaning with a slightly more formal tone.

longer length

Uses "longer" instead of "extra", focusing on the comparative aspect of the length.

increased length

Describes the state of having become longer, focusing on the change in length.

added length

Focuses on the action of increasing the length, rather than the state of being longer.

greater length

Highlights the magnitude of the length, suggesting a considerable increase.

extended length

Emphasizes the increased duration or reach with "extended" replacing "extra".

supplemental length

A more formal way to describe added length, implying it is an addition to something already present.

surplus length

Suggests an excess amount of length, implying more than is needed.

spare length

Indicates that the extra length is available for use if needed, implying preparedness.

excessive length

Indicates a length that is beyond what is necessary or desirable, potentially causing problems.

FAQs

How can I use "an extra length" in a sentence?

You can use "an extra length" to describe something that has more length than usual or required. For example, "The dressmaker added "an extra length" to the hemline to accommodate the client's height."

What's the difference between "an extra length" and "a longer length"?

"An extra length" implies adding length to something, while "a longer length" simply describes something that is longer. You might say, "We needed "a longer length" of rope", or "We added "an extra length" of trim to the curtain."

What are some alternatives to using "an extra length"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "additional length", "extended length" or "increased length".

Is it correct to say "a extra length" instead of "an extra length"?

No, it is not correct. "Extra" begins with a vowel sound, so it requires the indefinite article "an" rather than "a". The correct phrase is ""an extra length"".