long and draining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long and draining" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an experience or task that is both time-consuming and exhausting. Example: "The meeting was long and draining, leaving everyone feeling fatigued by the end."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

It has been a long and draining journey for Pendleton.

The Guardian - Sport

But raising investment is a long and draining process, physically and mentally exhausting with plenty of very late nights.

The Guardian

Treatment today can still be a long and draining process of trial and error to find the right medication, which can last for years.

The Guardian - Opinion

A house can exert such a powerful emotional hold on those who have lived there that for some, letting go becomes a long and draining ordeal.

The New York Times

A third is the need to prepare the American people for the prospect of a long and draining commitment in Iraq.

The New York Times

The most telling insight, perhaps, came when Arsène Wenger was asked how he had recovered after the exertions of another long and draining season.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The river is 500 miles (800 km) long and drains 15,300 square miles (39,600 square km).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Donets is 650 miles (1,050 km) long and drains a basin of 39,000 square miles (100,000 square km).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The river is 139 miles (224 km) long and drains a basin of 31,000 square miles (80,200 square km).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Ural is 1,509 miles (2,428 km) long and drains an area of 91,500 square miles (237,000 square km).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Kura is 848 miles (1,364 km) long and drains an area of 72,500 square miles (188,000 sq km).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or task, use "long and draining" to effectively convey both the time commitment and the energy expenditure involved.

Common error

While appropriate for formal writing, avoid using "long and draining" excessively in casual conversation. Simpler alternatives might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long and draining" functions primarily as a compound adjective to describe a noun. It signifies that the noun it modifies possesses the qualities of being extended in duration and causing significant exhaustion. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "long and draining" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something extended in time and causing exhaustion. Ludwig AI indicates it's usable in written English to effectively convey time commitment and energy expenditure. Found primarily in News & Media, Encyclopedia, and Science contexts, the phrase has a neutral register and is best used to emphasize the burdensome nature of a task or experience. While "long and draining" is acceptable for formal writing, consider simpler alternatives for casual conversation such as "tedious and exhausting" or "lengthy and tiring".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tedious and exhausting

Focuses on the boring and tiring aspects of something.

lengthy and tiring

Highlights the duration and the resulting fatigue.

protracted and debilitating

Emphasizes the drawn-out nature and weakening effect.

arduous and wearying

Stresses the difficulty and the feeling of weariness.

grueling and enervating

Focuses on the severity and energy-sapping quality.

demanding and exhausting

Highlights the high demands and the resulting exhaustion.

taxing and sapping

Stresses the heavy burden and the gradual depletion of resources.

strenuous and depleting

Focuses on the vigorous effort required and the reduction of resources.

challenging and debilitating

Emphasizes the difficulty and the weakening effect.

difficult and exhausting

Highlights the problems and the resulting exhaustion.

FAQs

How can I use "long and draining" in a sentence?

You can use "long and draining" to describe a process, activity, or period that requires significant time and effort. For example, "The project was a "long and draining" process, but the results were worth it."

What are some alternatives to "long and draining"?

Alternatives include "tedious and exhausting", "lengthy and tiring", or "arduous and wearying", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "long and draining" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "long and draining" is generally suitable for formal writing, especially when describing complex or demanding situations. However, ensure it fits the overall tone and style of your piece.

What makes something "long and draining"?

Something is "long and draining" when it requires a considerable amount of time and also depletes one's physical, mental, or emotional energy. It's a combination of duration and exertion.