at a length

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a length" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically suggests that more time or attention has been devoted to a conversation or piece of writing than usual. For example, "We discussed the upcoming election at a length, debating the merits of each candidate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The movie was tested at a length of 3 hours, and again at a length of 2 hours 25 minutes.

The New York Times

Caro's storied thoroughness meant that the original manuscript arrived at a length of a million words.

The Guardian - Books

Young are born at a length between 60 and 80 cm (23.6 and 31.5 inches).

Encyclopedia Britannica

A blog can explore a book at a length that all but the most prominent literary critics would envy.

The Guardian - Books

Sexual maturity may be reached for males at a length of 170 236 cm (67 93 inches) and for females at a length of 235 cm (93 inches), though some estimates suggest maturity is reached at larger sizes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is to be published at a length of 900 pages by Phébus of Paris, with plans to publish translations in English and Russian.

The New York Times

Robert Leeson includes both in his recently re-issued collection of ten stories Arabian Nights, told at a length that is perfect for reading aloud.

The Guardian

But it's a terrific film nonetheless, a silent movie with words — presented at a length that the great early masters like Chaplin and Keaton would have understood.

The Guardian - Film

In July 1932, a rhesus monkey at the recently opened Chester Zoo was seen by visitors gnawing at a length of rope.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ian writes best at a length shorter than the full-scale novel; this is connected with his being a master of unease.

The New Yorker

They become "things, not people" – a status and a plight that, outside global politics and showbiz, Rushdie has sampled at a length and depth unparalleled in modern times.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at a length" in scientific writing, ensure that the units of measurement (e.g., cm, m, inches) are clearly specified to maintain precision and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "at a length" when you specifically mean duration. For example, instead of saying "The meeting was held at a length", say "The meeting was held for a long time" or "the meeting lasted".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a length" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses by specifying a measurement, duration, or extent. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples illustrating its application in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a length" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to specify measurements, durations, or extents. Ludwig AI shows it's frequently found in diverse contexts, from scientific papers to news articles. It's essential to consider the specific context and purpose when using this phrase, ensuring that it accurately conveys the intended meaning. Be mindful of potential confusion with similar phrases like "at great length", which implies thoroughness rather than a measurable dimension. While grammatically correct, clarity should always be prioritized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at great length

This alternative shares a similar structure to "at a length", emphasizing thoroughness or duration.

in detail

This alternative focuses on the level of detail provided, rather than the physical or temporal extent.

in depth

This alternative focuses on thoroughness and detail, rather than physical extent.

extensively

This alternative emphasizes the degree to which something is covered or discussed.

for a considerable time

This alternative specifies duration rather than spatial length.

to a great extent

This alternative refers to the degree or scope of something.

for a long duration

This alternative emphasizes duration over spatial length.

over a distance of

This alternative explicitly mentions distance, which may be implied but not stated in "at a length".

extending to

This alternative emphasizes the act of reaching a particular length or distance.

measuring

This alternative emphasizes the act of measuring the length itself.

FAQs

How can I use "at a length" in a sentence?

You can use "at a length" to describe the dimension of an object, as in "The rope was cut at a length of two meters". It can also describe the duration of something: "The discussion proceeded at a length."

What's the difference between "at a length" and "at great length"?

"At a length" specifies a measurable distance or duration. "At great length" implies something is done extensively or thoroughly, often referring to the duration of a speech or writing.

Is it better to use "at a length" or "in length"?

"At a length" is generally preferred when specifying a measurement or duration. "In length" can also be used, but "at a length" is often more direct in certain contexts.

What are some alternative phrases for "at a length" when describing physical dimensions?

When describing physical dimensions, you can use alternatives such as "measuring", "extending to", or simply state the measurement directly: "The wire is 10 cm long".