long distance

USAGE SUMMARY

'long distance' is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a relationship that covers a great physical distance between two people. For example: "My sister and I have been in a long distance relationship since she moved to California."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Long, long distance.

The New Yorker

Long distance 10.

The Guardian - Travel

He specialized in long distance free style.

The New York Times

Long distance runner and marathon champion.

The New York Times

Project 3: Sharing photos long distance.

The New York Times

(Long distance is unaffected).

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Long-distance travel.

Independent

I'm good @ long-distance canoe.

The New Yorker

They began long-distance dating.

The New York Times

A long-distance relationship developed.

The New York Times

He's into long-distance walking.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "long distance", consider the specific context to ensure clarity. For example, in sports, it refers to endurance; in relationships, to geographical separation; and in telecommunications, to calls outside a local area.

Common error

Avoid using "long distance" when you mean "long-term". "Long distance" refers to physical separation, while "long-term" relates to duration or time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long distance" primarily functions as an adjective modifying a noun. It describes something that covers or involves a great physical separation. Ludwig, as indicated by its examples, confirms this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "long distance" is a versatile term primarily used as an adjective to describe spatial separation or duration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge. It's essential to differentiate "long distance" from "long-term" to avoid confusion, focusing on physical separation versus duration. As highlighted by Ludwig, the phrase appears frequently in contexts such as "long distance relationships", telecommunications, and sports, demonstrating its broad applicability. Related phrases like "cross country" or "long haul" offer alternative ways to convey similar concepts, depending on the specific nuance you wish to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

long haul

Emphasizes the sustained effort or time required for something.

transcontinental

Refers to something that crosses a continent.

cross-country

Indicates movement or activity spanning an entire country.

interstate

Relates to connections or activities between states.

extensive range

Focuses on the span or reach covered.

considerable reach

Emphasizes the extent of influence or effect over a large area.

significant stretch

Highlights the length or duration involved.

extended duration

Underscores the temporal aspect of something lasting a while.

faraway

Implies remoteness and separation.

remote location

Specifies a distant or isolated place.

FAQs

How is the term "long distance" typically used?

The term "long distance" is versatile, referring to geographical separation in relationships, endurance in sports, or calls outside a local calling area in telecommunications.

What are some alternatives to "long distance" when referring to travel?

When discussing travel, consider using "cross country", "transcontinental", or "interstate" depending on the scope of the journey.

How does "long distance" differ from "long-term"?

"Long distance" describes physical separation, such as a "long distance" relationship, whereas "long term" indicates duration or time, such as a "long-term" investment.

In what contexts is "long distance" most commonly used?

As seen in the examples, "long distance" is frequently used in contexts related to "long distance relationships", telecommunications, and sports. Its usage depends heavily on the subject at hand.