it was a long process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was a long process" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or task that took a significant amount of time to complete. Example: "The project was challenging, and it was a long process to get everything finalized."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Its shape was complicated, and it was a long process.

Vice

It was a long process".

The New York Times - Sports

"It was a long process," he says.

The Guardian - Music

But it was a long process.

The Guardian

"It was a long process, to the point where we almost gave up".

The New Yorker

"It was a long process, and I was really impatient," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It's a long process".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a long process," he said.

The New York Times

"It's a long process," she said.

The New York Times

"It's a long process," says Palmetshofer.

The Guardian

"It's a long process," Kiwanuka said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it was a long process", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific activity or event you are referring to. Providing details about the steps or challenges involved can enhance clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "it was a long process" without specifying what 'it' refers to. Without context, the phrase lacks meaning and can confuse the reader. Always provide the necessary background information to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was a long process" functions as a statement describing the duration of an activity or event. It indicates that the process took a considerable amount of time to complete. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

4%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was a long process" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as validated by Ludwig AI. It serves to communicate that a particular activity or event required a significant amount of time to complete. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. For clarity, always specify the 'it' to what you are referring to. Consider alternatives like "it took a long time" or "it was a lengthy procedure" to add nuance depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it took a long time

Focuses on the duration aspect, simply stating the time consumed.

it was a lengthy procedure

Emphasizes the formal or systematic nature of the process.

it required a lot of time

Highlights the significant amount of time needed.

it was a drawn-out affair

Suggests the process was unnecessarily prolonged or tedious.

it was a protracted undertaking

Implies a formal and extended effort.

it spanned a considerable period

Highlights the duration of the process.

it unfolded over many stages

Focuses on the sequential steps involved.

it involved a gradual progression

Emphasizes the slow and incremental nature of the process.

it was a step-by-step development

Highlights a series of ordered actions or phases.

it demanded sustained effort

Highlights the consistent effort required throughout the entire duration.

FAQs

How can I use "it was a long process" in a sentence?

You can use "it was a long process" to describe any activity or event that took a significant amount of time and effort to complete. For example: "Getting the permit approved "it was a long process", but we finally succeeded".

What are some alternatives to "it was a long process"?

Alternatives include "it took a long time", "it was a lengthy procedure", or "it required a lot of time" depending on the specific context.

Is "it was a long process" formal or informal?

"It was a long process" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The formality of the surrounding language will determine the overall tone.

What makes a process "long"?

A process can be considered "long" due to various factors such as numerous steps, unexpected delays, complex requirements, or the need for extensive research and development.