long ones

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long ones" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to items or concepts that are lengthy in size or duration, often in a comparative context. Example: "I prefer the long ones when it comes to pasta; they hold the sauce better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He likened the movies, especially the long ones, to sitting on a suitcase.

The New York Times - Arts

I got two really long ones to go on number two and number four.

Independent

Place it in between the two groups on the long ones.

WikiHow

The long ones, however, were placed on the nest perimeter.

The New York Times

Physical health Commuting, especially long ones, can wreak havoc on your health.

Huffington Post

Scientists have weighed in on the risks presented by short asbestos fibers and long ones.

The New York Times

"The matches that he's lost on clay the last few years have been normally long ones.

BBC

Long ones.

Independent

(ii) Prefer short words to long ones.

The Economist

There were tiny labia and long ones.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The long ones are particularly dangerous.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using “long ones”, ensure the context is clear and the comparison is evident, so the reader understands what is being described as long in relation to something else.

Common error

Avoid using “long ones” without specifying what is being compared. For example, instead of saying “I prefer the long ones”, specify “I prefer the long novels” for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long ones" typically functions as a pronoun, replacing a noun phrase to avoid repetition. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its primary function is to refer to items or concepts that are lengthy in size or duration, often in a comparative context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

22%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "long ones" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote items or concepts that possess considerable length or duration. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is correct and usable in English. It appears most often in news and media, but also in wikis and scientific publications, indicating broad applicability. While generally neutral in tone, it leans towards informality. To ensure clarity, use "long ones" in contexts where the comparison is evident, avoiding ambiguity. Be mindful that, even if correct, it might be better to explain which are the "long ones" you are referring to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extended versions

Focuses on the extended nature of something, implying an increased duration or size.

long-lasting occurrences

Emphasizes the enduring quality and duration of events or phenomena.

prolonged instances

Emphasizes the extended duration of specific occurrences or events.

lengthier components

Focuses on parts or elements that are longer in comparison to others.

lengthy iterations

Highlights repeated processes or actions that are considerably long.

protracted episodes

Refers to events or occurrences that are lengthy and often unwanted.

drawn-out affairs

Suggests that situations or matters are unnecessarily extended and often tedious.

more time-consuming processes

Highlights processes that require a significant amount of time to complete.

substantial segments

Implies notable portions or parts that have a considerable length.

extensive renditions

Highlights the comprehensive and detailed nature of presentations or performances.

FAQs

How can I use "long ones" in a sentence?

You can use "long ones" to refer to things that are longer than others, such as "They gave us the really "long ones" that you'd use at night," referring to absorbent pads.

What are some alternatives to "long ones"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "extended versions", "lengthy iterations", or "prolonged instances".

Is it ever incorrect to use "long ones"?

While grammatically correct, using "long ones" without clear context can cause confusion. Ensure it's clear what you are comparing to avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "long ones" and "lengthy ones"?

"Long ones" is more informal and commonly used, while "lengthy ones" is a more formal and emphasizes the extended duration or size in a more pronounced way.