it is rather long

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is rather long" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that has a considerable length, whether it's a text, a piece of information, or an object. Example: "The report is quite detailed, but I must say, it is rather long for a single meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

For another, he sent out invitations to the viewing shortly before expiring, and the list of former spouses on it is rather long.

The New York Times

It is rather long and rambling (and seems somewhat repetitive) and may be construed to some extent as "propaganda" for the author's opinion in this case.

F1000Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Also unlike King's speeches, it is rather long-winded.

The New York Times - Arts

Please forgive me that it's rather long.

The New Yorker

It sounded good, but when the actual dance was shown, it was rather long-winded, much of the movement didn't seem to amount to much or contain any discernible meaning, and I saw dancers moving very fluidly, very well, but I wasn't sure whether I saw any of their "clarity of intent" or how to even recognize that.

Huffington Post

The one on assessment of the injured patient is rather long; it is difficult to imagine wading through this chapter and recording various findings while managing the critically injured person in the field.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

However, the process is rather long and laborious, and it should be considered as a work-in-process research.

Heritage Science

The list is rather long.

The New York Times

The ingredient list for the recipe is rather long, but don't let that be intimidating.

The New York Times - Food

The proof of stochastic permanence is rather long and technical.

Advances in Difference Equations

The proof, which is rather long, is given in the appendix.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it is rather long", consider whether a more specific adjective (e.g., lengthy, extensive, protracted) might provide a more precise description for your intended audience.

Common error

While "it is rather long" is acceptable, overuse of "rather" can make your writing sound hesitant. In formal writing, opt for stronger, more direct synonyms like "it is lengthy" or "it is extensive" for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is rather long" primarily functions as a descriptive statement. According to Ludwig, it's considered correct and usable. It serves to characterize something as having a considerable extent or duration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

53%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is rather long" is a grammatically correct and commonly used descriptive statement to indicate that something possesses a significant length or duration. According to Ludwig, the phrase is valid and applicable in written English. Though versatile across contexts, more precise or formal synonyms might be preferred in certain settings, such as academic or professional writing. While often found in News & Media and Scientific texts, consider stronger descriptive adjectives to better suit the intended level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's quite lengthy

Emphasizes the extent of the length in a slightly more formal tone.

it's excessively lengthy

Stresses that the length is beyond what is necessary or desirable.

it's somewhat extensive

Highlights the breadth or scope of something, implying it covers a large area or range.

it's of considerable length

A more formal way of stating that something has significant length.

it's pretty drawn-out

Indicates that something takes more time than expected and can be tedious.

it is somewhat prolonged

Similar to protracted but less formal, suggesting an extension in time or length.

it's fairly protracted

Suggests that something lasts for an unexpectedly long duration, often in a formal context.

it's a bit verbose

Specifically points out excessive wordiness in writing or speech.

it's rather rambling

Implies that something lacks focus and goes off on tangents.

it's quite a tome

Referring specifically to a book, emphasizes its considerable size and weight.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is rather long" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, you can replace "it is rather long" with phrases like "it is quite lengthy" or "it is somewhat extensive". These alternatives offer a more sophisticated tone.

What does "it is rather long" imply about the subject?

The phrase "it is rather long" suggests that the subject has a notable duration or length that might be more than what's expected or typical. The degree of length is implied without giving specific numbers.

Is "it is rather long" suitable for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "it is rather long" may sound too informal for some academic contexts. Consider stronger or more precise alternatives such as "it is fairly protracted" or specify the length numerically if possible.

When is it appropriate to use "it is rather long" instead of "it is very long"?

"It is rather long" is appropriate when you want to soften the statement slightly. It suggests a degree of lengthiness without being as emphatic as "it is very long". The choice depends on the desired level of emphasis.