for an extended time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for an extended time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to refer to a period of time that is longer than normal. For example: "The library was closed for an extended time due to the pandemic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Coastal communities were isolated for an extended time.

Nature

In other words, the world's ecosystem was under widespread stress for an extended time.

The New York Times - Science

We were there for an extended time preparing for the Athens Games in 2004.

The New York Times

Should they expect to stay with us for an extended time in the baby's first month?

The Washington Post

The side effects of these medications became known only because patients were institutionalized for an extended time.

The New York Times

I intend on going travelling for an extended time, which means saving for that, but nothing is confirmed yet.

The Guardian - Money

The machine, known as the stellarator, confines electrons for an extended time, allowing scientists to conduct tightly controlled experiments.

Columbia University

He said the ultimate goal was for humans eventually to stay on the red planet "for an extended time".

The Guardian

She only locked the house during the day when the family was away for an extended time, on vacation.

The New York Times

Our experimental results show that hemoglobin (Hb) molecules can enter the lipid layer and remain for an extended time.

Talanta

Normally, a pension plan that dips below 90percentt for an extended time is considered underfunded, and the company must make special, accelerated contributions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for an extended time" to clearly indicate that something lasts longer than usual or expected. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, providing clarity about duration.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "for an extended time" without providing context. Whenever possible, specify the actual or estimated duration to give the reader a clearer understanding of the time frame involved. Vague references can reduce the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for an extended time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the duration of an action or state. It specifies the length of time something occurs, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

37%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for an extended time" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that serves to emphasize duration. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's considered grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts. While predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Science", the phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal writing. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by providing additional context about the specific time frame involved. Consider related phrases like "for a prolonged period" or "over a long period" to add nuance to your writing. Remember that while "for an extended time" is widely accepted, specific details always enhance understanding. Using "for an extended time" helps your reader better perceive the intended duration of an event or action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a prolonged period

Focuses on the length of the period rather than the continuation of time.

for a considerable duration

Emphasizes the substantial length of the time involved.

for a lengthy duration

Similar to "prolonged", but slightly more informal.

over a long period

Shifts the focus to 'over' a period which can imply change during the time.

for a substantial amount of time

Highlights the quantity of time passed.

for quite some time

More conversational and less formal.

for an indefinite period

Suggests the time frame is not clearly defined or limited.

for the long haul

Idiomatic, implying commitment through an extended duration.

in the long run

Focuses on eventual outcomes after a considerable time.

for ages

Informal and hyperbolic, meaning a very long time.

FAQs

How can I use "for an extended time" in a sentence?

You can use "for an extended time" to describe something that lasts longer than expected, such as "The meeting was scheduled for an hour, but it ran "for an extended time"."

What are some alternatives to "for an extended time"?

Some alternatives include "for a prolonged period", "for a considerable duration", or "over a long period", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it more appropriate to say "for an extended time" or "for a long time"?

"For an extended time" suggests a duration longer than what is typical or expected, while "for a long time" simply indicates a significant duration. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the unusual length of the period.

What's the difference between "for an extended time" and "for a short time"?

"For an extended time" implies a duration that is longer than normal or expected, while "for a short time" means the opposite – a duration that is briefer than normal. Each phrase sets a clear expectation about the length of the period.