in the long run

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the long run" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a process that will happen gradually over a long period of time or as the ultimate result of an action. Example sentence: "Working hard now will pay off in the long run."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In the long run?

The New York Times - Sports

In the long run, reasonable.

The Economist

But in the long run?

The Economist

But not in the long run.

The Economist

It's cheaper in the long run".

The New York Times

In the long run, it helps me".

The New York Times - Sports

Who is stronger in the long run?

The New York Times - Books

In the long run, it hardly matters.

The New York Times

It saves money in the long run".

Independent

It will, in the long run.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's worth it in the long-run.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in the long run", consider the specific context and ensure it aligns with the idea of an outcome that unfolds over a considerable period. Avoid using it when referring to immediate or short-term results.

Common error

Avoid using "in the long run" when a short-term perspective is more appropriate. For instance, instead of saying "In the long run, this project will be completed next week", use "This project will be completed next week" to accurately reflect the immediate timeframe.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the long run" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the time frame over which an action or result occurs. As demonstrated in Ludwig's examples, it specifies that the effects or consequences will be apparent after a considerable period.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the long run" is a common and grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to emphasize outcomes that occur over a significant period. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and versatility across various contexts. It appears most frequently in news and media, academic writing, and wiki content, indicating a neutral register. When writing, consider the intended time frame to accurately convey the long-term implications of an action or decision. Related phrases like "eventually" and "ultimately" can serve as effective alternatives depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

over the long haul

Highlights endurance and persistence to achieve a goal or experience a result.

in the end

Highlights the final result or outcome after a period of time or effort.

ultimately

Stresses the final and decisive outcome, often after a series of events or considerations.

eventually

Focuses on the certainty of something happening at a later time, without explicitly stating the duration.

down the line

Implies future consequences or benefits that will materialize as time progresses.

in the final analysis

Suggests a comprehensive review and conclusion after considering all aspects of a situation.

in the fullness of time

Emphasizes that something will happen when the time is right, often suggesting patience is required.

with time

Suggests that the results can be obtained after a suitable amount of time has passed.

looking ahead

Shifts the focus to future prospects and potential outcomes.

sooner or later

Implies that something is bound to happen at some point in the future, though the exact timing is uncertain.

FAQs

How can I use "in the long run" in a sentence?

Use "in the long run" to discuss the eventual outcome of an action or decision over a considerable period. For example, "Investing in education pays off in the long run".

What is a synonym for "in the long run"?

Similar phrases include "eventually", "ultimately", or "over the long haul", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "in the long run" and "in the short term"?

"In the long run" refers to outcomes that manifest after a prolonged period, while "in the short term" describes immediate or near-future effects. For instance, "Increased spending might stimulate the economy in the short term, but could lead to debt in the long run".

When is it appropriate to use "in the long run" instead of "eventually"?

Use "in the long run" when you want to emphasize that the result will only be apparent after a significant amount of time and consistent effort. "Eventually" is a more general term that simply means at some later time.