for a long term

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'for a long term' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that will last or continue for an extended period of time. For example, "We need to make sure our investment plan is sustainable for a long term."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

They provide short term help for a long term problem.

The Guardian

In 15 min, the solution was cooled and stored at 4 °C for a long term.

Nano-Micro Letters

The state government can source for a long term loan to pay off.

Journal of Global Entrepreneurship Research

The energy ESS is used for large-volume energy storage for a long term.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

You find him attractive, in good health and he's looking for a long term commitment.

Huffington Post

Go for a long term mortgage loan.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Not looking for a long-term commitment?

University of California, Berkeley

"We're looking for a long-term solution".

The New York Times

And he did not lobby for a long-term contract.

The New York Times - Sports

"She was looking for a long-term career".

The New York Times

So much for a long-term economic plan.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific alternatives like "for the next decade" or "for the foreseeable future" if the intended duration is relatively clear. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "for a long term" without specifying the area to which it applies. Don't say, "This policy is good for a long term." Instead, specify "This policy is good for the company's long-term growth."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a long term" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to specify the duration of an action, state, or condition. Ludwig AI examples show its utility in business, science, and general contexts, highlighting its capacity to add a time perspective to statements.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for a long term" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adverbial phrase that specifies the duration of an action or state. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across various fields, from news and media to scientific research. Although relatively uncommon, the phrase serves to emphasize continuity and sets expectations for an extended duration. Related phrases, such as "in the long run" or "for an extended period", offer similar meanings with slight variations in nuance. When employing "for a long term", ensure clarity by specifying the context and area to which it applies, avoiding vague generalizations. By understanding its function, purpose, and proper usage, writers can effectively convey the intended duration and impact of their statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a long-term basis

Adds emphasis on the continuity of the action, event or state that is considered.

for an extended period

This alternative uses a more general term for time, focusing on the duration being longer than usual.

for many years to come

Directly specifies a long duration measured in years, emphasizing continuation into the future.

with a long-term perspective

Focuses on planning or acting with consideration for future implications and results.

for a considerable duration

Replaces 'long term' with a more descriptive expression focusing on the extent of time.

in the long run

This idiom shifts the focus to the eventual outcome or consequences after a considerable amount of time.

over the long haul

Similar to 'in the long run' but emphasizes endurance and sustained effort over time.

over an extended timeframe

Highlights the stretch of time involved, suitable for discussing plans or projects.

for the foreseeable future

This phrase implies that the duration is limited by what can be predicted or anticipated.

in the fullness of time

A more poetic and less precise way to indicate a considerable amount of time will pass.

FAQs

How can I use "for a long term" in a sentence?

You can use "for a long term" to describe the duration of an investment, relationship, or goal. For example, "We are seeking investors who are interested in supporting the project "for a long term"".

What are some alternatives to using "for a long term"?

Alternatives include "in the long run", "over the long haul", or "for an extended period". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "long-term" or "for a long term"?

"Long-term" (hyphenated) is typically used as an adjective before a noun (e.g., "long-term investment"). "For a long term" is used as an adverbial phrase to describe the duration of something. Both are correct, but they have different grammatical functions.

What does "for a long term" imply about future expectations?

"For a long term" suggests a commitment or expectation that something will continue or remain relevant for an extended and indefinite period, often with positive intentions or benefits expected over that time.