lengthy gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lengthy gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant period of time or distance between two events or points. Example: "There was a lengthy gap between the two meetings, which caused some confusion among the team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Given the often lengthy gap between a movie receiving a green light and its eventual release, the film industry can often be hideously uncool.

The Guardian - Film

The office of the National Taxpayer Advocate, which represents the interests of tax filers, has recommended that the I.R.S. identify ways to eliminate the lengthy gap between processing refunds and reconciling eligibility.

The New York Times

Juliet Davenport, chief executive of renewable energy supplier Good Energy, said: "We are concerned that the full scheme won't start until October 2012, a lengthy gap which may spook potential investors.

The Guardian

During one lengthy gap, Country Joe strolled on stage with an acoustic guitar and sang his I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die Rag, leading 500,000 people in his Fuck Cheer - "Gimme an F, gimme a U..."... Did he sense trouble simmering?

The Guardian - Music

Such is the lengthy gap between the US PGA Championship in August and April at Augusta, the Masters is always the most eagerly anticipated of the majors.

BBC

He testified that there was a lengthy gap in transmission, and that he did not hear the words "at Cedarside".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

With few acts, lengthy gaps and not enough to do, it didn't feel like a music festival.

The Guardian - Music

Since he started directing, in 1994, he has completed just six features, with lengthy gaps between them.

The Guardian - Film

"There are lengthy gaps in between his films, so when you see him, you're not bored because you've not seen him for a while.

BBC

The head of the Royal Navy, the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir George Zambellas, has been a strong advocate for both, not least because running only one would leave the UK with lengthy gaps thanks to refits.

BBC

Lengthy gaps between appointments also undermined interviewees' motivation to optimally manage their diabetes.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lengthy gap" when you want to emphasize that the duration between two events is significant and potentially causing an effect or concern.

Common error

While "lengthy gap" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Simpler terms like "long time" or "big break" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lengthy gap" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "lengthy" modifies the noun "gap". It describes a significant period of time or space between two points or events. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lengthy gap" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a significant duration between two events or points. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, and it appears frequently in diverse contexts, especially News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, it's best to avoid overusing it in very informal settings. When writing, remember that "lengthy gap" emphasizes the duration's importance and potential impact. Consider alternatives like "extended duration" or "prolonged interval" for nuanced meaning. The phrase is considered acceptable and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extended duration

Focuses on the duration itself being long.

prolonged interval

Highlights the space in time between two occurrences.

significant delay

Emphasizes the aspect of tardiness or postponement.

considerable lapse

Indicates a notable passing of time.

substantial break

Implies an interruption or pause of notable length.

extended hiatus

Suggests a formal or intentional pause.

long intermission

Often used in the context of performances or events.

protracted absence

Focuses on someone or something being away for a long time.

sizeable space

Highlights the expanse of time or distance.

lengthy period

More general, referring to a long stretch of time.

FAQs

How can I use "lengthy gap" in a sentence?

You can use "lengthy gap" to describe a significant duration between two events. For example, "There was a lengthy gap between the application submission and the interview invitation."

What are some alternatives to saying "lengthy gap"?

You can use alternatives like "extended duration", "prolonged interval", or "significant delay" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "lengthy gap" or "long gap"?

"Lengthy gap" and "long gap" are both acceptable, but "lengthy gap" often implies a more substantial or consequential duration. "Long gap" is more general.

What's the difference between a "lengthy gap" and a "brief hiatus"?

A "lengthy gap" refers to a considerable amount of time separating two events, whereas a "brief hiatus" indicates a short or temporary pause or interruption.