for the long term

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'for the long term' can be used in written English.
It typically refers to a period of time that is indefinite or not known in advance. For example, "We are investing in renewable energy sources for the long term."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

"For the long term, who knows?

The New Yorker

I'm here for the long term.

The New York Times

It was built for the long term.

The New York Times - Sports

I am here for the long term.

Independent

Government stopped planning for the long term.

The Economist

But that is for the long term.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

As for the long-term problems?

The New York Times

Create a WPA for the long-term unemployed.

University of California, Berkeley

"You're not building for the long-term.

Forbes

He's committed for the long-term.

Forbes

We're here for the long-term.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing strategy or planning, use "for the long term" to emphasize a commitment that goes beyond immediate gains.

Common error

Avoid using "for the long term" when referring to strategies that yield immediate results. This phrase should be reserved for initiatives designed to have a sustained impact over an extended period.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the long term" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the duration or timeframe to which an action or state applies. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for the long term" is a very common prepositional phrase used to indicate an extended period or future orientation. Ludwig AI identifies its correct grammatical use. Predominantly found in news and media, academic, and formal business contexts, it serves to emphasize the lasting impact or sustained nature of a plan or commitment. While it's important to avoid confusing it with short-term strategies, "for the long term" is a versatile phrase suitable for a wide range of writing purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the long run

Replaces 'for' with 'in', subtly shifting the emphasis to the eventual outcome.

for years to come

Emphasizes the continuation of something over many years.

over the long haul

An idiomatic expression emphasizing persistence and endurance over an extended period.

for the foreseeable future

Implies a long term, but one that can be reasonably anticipated or predicted.

long-term

Functions as an adjective modifying a noun, rather than a prepositional phrase.

in the future

A more general term referring to a time yet to come, lacking the sense of extended duration.

in perpetuity

Suggests an indefinite or unending duration, often used in legal or formal contexts.

down the line

Informal way to say in the future, often implying consequences or developments.

in the fullness of time

A more literary or philosophical way of saying in the future, suggesting patience and eventual realization.

looking ahead

Focuses on planning and anticipation for the future, rather than simply duration.

FAQs

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

You can use "for the long term" to describe plans, investments, or strategies that are intended to be effective or beneficial over an extended period. For example, "We are investing in renewable energy "in the long run"".

What's the difference between "for the long term" and "in the short term"?

"For the long term" refers to a period that is distant and indefinite, while "in the short term" refers to the immediate future or a brief period. They represent opposite ends of a time horizon.

What can I say instead of "for the long term"?

Alternatives include "in the long run", "over the long haul", or "in the future", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to plan for the short term or "for the long term"?

Ideally, you should plan for both. Short-term plans address immediate needs and opportunities, while "for the long term" plans ensure sustainability and future success. A balanced approach is crucial.