cast a long shadow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cast a long shadow" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used metaphorically to indicate that something has a significant influence or impact, often in a negative way. Example: "The scandal surrounding the politician continues to cast a long shadow over his career, affecting public perception."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These attitudes cast a long shadow.

The New Yorker

She cast a long shadow.

The Guardian - Film

The 1970s still cast a long shadow.

The Guardian - Business

History does cast a long shadow.

The Guardian

Those uncertain days cast a long shadow.

The New York Times

Carman's demons still cast a long shadow.

The Guardian - Books

Still, ResCap has cast a long shadow over its parent.

The New York Times

ResCap has cast a long shadow over its parent company.

The New York Times

Picard's case has cast a long shadow over the Mets.

The New York Times

But this one may cast a long shadow.

The Economist

Death cast a long shadow over the family.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional connotation you want to convey. While "cast a long shadow" often suggests a negative influence, it can also imply importance or significance.

Common error

Avoid using "cast a long shadow" with concrete nouns that literally cast shadows. The phrase is most effective when used metaphorically to describe lasting influence or impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cast a long shadow" functions as an idiomatic expression, used metaphorically to describe a situation, event, or person that has a significant and lasting impact or influence, often negative. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cast a long shadow" is a versatile and frequently used idiom to describe something with a significant and lasting impact, often negative. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread use, particularly in news and media contexts. While grammatically sound, it's crucial to use it metaphorically with abstract subjects to effectively convey the intended meaning. Consider alternatives like "have a lasting impact" or "exert a strong influence" for different nuances. Avoiding misuse with concrete nouns ensures clarity and strengthens your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a lasting impact

This alternative is a more direct and less figurative way of expressing a continuing influence.

exert a strong influence

This alternative focuses on the active application of influence rather than a consequence.

leave a significant mark

This alternative highlights the resulting effect or impression more than the ongoing process of influencing.

have far-reaching consequences

This alternative emphasizes the breadth and extent of the results produced.

make a profound impression

This focuses on the depth of the emotional or intellectual impact.

loom large

This alternative implies a sense of threat or overshadowing.

remain a dominant factor

This suggests an ongoing and controlling presence.

have a substantial effect

This offers a less evocative but still impactful alternative.

continue to resonate

This alternative focuses on the continuing relevance and impact over time.

linger in the memory

This highlights the persistence of something within one's mind or collective consciousness.

FAQs

How can I use "cast a long shadow" in a sentence?

The phrase "cast a long shadow" is used to describe something that has a significant and lasting impact or influence. For example, "The economic crisis "cast a long shadow" over the country for years."

What is the difference between "cast a long shadow" and "have a lasting impact"?

While both phrases suggest a continuing effect, "cast a long shadow" often implies a more negative or ominous influence. "Have a lasting impact" is more neutral and can refer to positive or negative effects.

What are some alternatives to "cast a long shadow"?

You can use alternatives like "have a lasting impact", "exert a strong influence", or "leave a significant mark depending on the context.

Is "cast a long shadow" formal or informal language?

"Cast a long shadow" is generally considered appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, but is more common in news and media, offering a slightly literary or evocative tone. It's suitable for conveying a significant and often negative influence.