for long enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'for long enough' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use 'for long enough' to indicate that a time period has been long enough for something to happen. For example: "I had been waiting for long enough, so I decided to leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They enjoyed their millions for long enough".

The New York Times

IT HAS lurked for long enough.

The Economist

But not for long enough.

The New York Times - Sports

"They've fucked us for long enough.

The New Yorker

I've been away for long enough.

The Guardian - Sport

Many feel that Iraq has been punished for long enough.

The Economist

He has deliberated, cogitated and digested for long enough.

Independent

"I could never pay attention for long enough.

Independent

But maybe I didn't stick with it for long enough.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

At least for long enough to write about it?

The New Yorker

But I had worked 90-hour weeks for long enough.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for long enough" to clearly indicate that a certain duration is sufficient for an action to be completed or a result to occur. For example, "If you marinate the chicken for long enough, it will absorb the flavors effectively."

Common error

Avoid using "for long enough" when the length of time isn't critical to the outcome. For instance, instead of saying "I looked at the painting for long enough", consider "I studied the painting closely" if the specific duration is not the point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for long enough" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the duration of an action or state. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

12%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for long enough" is a versatile and frequently used adverbial phrase that indicates a sufficient duration for a specific outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and general reference materials. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to use this phrase when emphasizing that a time period was adequate for a purpose, and to avoid it when duration is not a critical factor. By understanding its proper usage and considering suitable alternatives, writers can effectively convey the intended meaning and avoid common errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sufficiently long

Emphasizes the adequacy of the duration.

long enough period

Adds emphasis on the duration being a period of time.

for a sufficient time

Highlights that the time was adequate for a specific purpose.

for an extended period

Focuses on the length and continuation of the time.

over a prolonged duration

Stresses the long and continuous nature of the time.

for a good while

Informal way of saying a considerable amount of time.

for quite some time

Emphasizes the time passed was significant.

for a considerable duration

Highlights the duration was noteworthy.

for an adequate amount of time

Focuses on the appropriateness of the time.

for the requisite time

Highlights that the time satisfies some requirement.

FAQs

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

Use "for long enough" to indicate that a period of time needs to be sufficient for something to happen. For instance, "You need to bake the cake "for long enough" to ensure it's cooked through."

What are some alternatives to "for long enough"?

You can use phrases like "sufficiently long", "for a sufficient time", or "long enough period" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it ever incorrect to use "for long enough"?

While grammatically correct, "for long enough" may be inappropriate if the duration isn't critical to the context. In such cases, consider alternative phrases that focus on the manner or intensity of the action rather than the time spent.

What's the difference between "for long enough" and "for a long time"?

"For a long time" simply indicates a lengthy duration, while ""for long enough"" implies that the duration was sufficient for a specific outcome or purpose. The former is descriptive, and the latter suggests fulfillment or adequacy.