can be lengthy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be lengthy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has the potential to take a considerable amount of time or space, such as a process, document, or explanation. Example: "The report can be lengthy, so please ensure you allocate enough time to read it thoroughly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Since this process can be lengthy, early applications are encouraged.

Yale University

"As you can see, due process can be lengthy".

The New York Times

As a result, these can be lengthy and testy negotiations.

The New York Times

In both states, the process can be lengthy.

The New York Times

Torre knows from managing the Yankees that Red Sox-Yankees games can be lengthy.

The New York Times - Sports

But there are only a few in service, and waits on weekends can be lengthy.

The New York Times - Travel

Prison sentences can be lengthy: some states treat abortion as murder.

The Economist

The period of time necessary to educate a congregation can be lengthy one".

The New York Times

The country's criminal justice system is complex and trials can be lengthy.

The Guardian

A White House spokesman noted that the confirmation process can be lengthy.

The New York Times

That delay is problematic in Prince George's County where the eviction process can be lengthy.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be lengthy", consider the audience and context. In formal settings, provide specific time estimates or alternatives. For example, instead of saying "the process can be lengthy", say "the process typically takes 2-3 weeks".

Common error

Avoid using "can be lengthy" without providing additional context or estimated time frames. Vague language reduces clarity and leaves the reader unsure about the expected duration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be lengthy" functions as a descriptive phrase. It serves to qualify a noun or noun phrase by indicating the potential duration or extent of something. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be lengthy" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that indicates something has the potential to take a significant amount of time or space. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous real-world examples confirms that it is a versatile phrase appearing across diverse contexts, most notably in news, media, and scientific publications. When using this phrase, ensure to provide specific time estimates or additional context to enhance clarity for the audience. While neutral in tone, be mindful of potential alternatives like "may take a while" or "could be time-consuming" depending on the intended audience and specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may involve a lengthy process

Specifically focuses on the process being long.

could be time-consuming

Highlights the effort involved in terms of time.

can extend for quite a while

Adds emphasis to the duration being considerable.

may take a while

Emphasizes the time aspect but is slightly more informal.

might last a considerable time

Focuses on the lasting duration of the subject in question.

could go on for some time

Indicates an uncertain but potentially significant duration.

might be protracted

Suggests an unnecessary or undesirable extension in time.

is potentially prolonged

Highlights potential for unexpected duration increase.

may prove to be extended

Formally suggests an extension beyond what is expected.

can drag on

Implies a tedious and unnecessarily long duration.

FAQs

How can I use "can be lengthy" in a sentence?

You can use "can be lengthy" to describe processes, documents, or explanations that require a significant amount of time or space. For example: "The visa application process "can be lengthy", so start early" or "The report "can be lengthy", please allocate enough time to read it thoroughly".

What are some alternatives to "can be lengthy"?

Alternatives to "can be lengthy" include "may take a while", "could be time-consuming", or "might be protracted", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "can be lengthy"?

"Can be lengthy" is appropriate when you want to indicate that something may require a significant amount of time or space. It's a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but consider using more precise language when possible.

What's the difference between "can be lengthy" and "is lengthy"?

"Can be lengthy" implies a possibility or potential for being long, whereas "is lengthy" states it as a fact. For example, "the meeting can be lengthy" suggests it has the potential to take a lot of time, while "the meeting is lengthy" confirms that it will take a long time.