long sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a sentence that contains many words or is complex in structure. Example: "The author often employs a long sentence to convey intricate ideas and emotions in their writing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Her longing was perhaps even deeper than a guilty verdict  and a long sentence.

Huffington Post

That's a long sentence!

The New Yorker

This long sentence could be broken up.

The New York Times

Did he expect a long sentence?

The New York Times

That was a long sentence.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The example is a long sentence.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Coal being freed from its long sentence.

The Guardian - Books

Hrabal wasn't the first to attempt the Very Long Sentence.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

For some writers, a chapter-long sentence is eternity enough.

The New York Times - Books

Their Egyptian producer, Baher Mohamed, was given a decade-long sentence.

The Guardian

But, one stupid mistake shouldn't be a life-long sentence of public shame.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "long sentences" sparingly and intentionally, such as to create a specific effect or rhythm in your writing. Make sure that the reader has enough context.

Common error

Avoid constructing "long sentences" that are so convoluted that they confuse the reader. Prioritize clarity and conciseness over showcasing your vocabulary or grammatical prowess.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long sentence" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe a characteristic of writing or speech. It identifies a sentence based on its length and complexity, as shown in examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long sentence" is a common way to describe a sentence that is extended in length and potentially complex in structure. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic writing. While there's no inherent grammatical error in using "long sentences", clarity and readability should always be prioritized. It’s important to consider breaking down excessively "long sentences" to enhance understanding. Alternatives such as "lengthy sentence" or "complex sentence" may also be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lengthy sentence

This alternative focuses on the extended length of the sentence.

extended sentence

Similar to 'lengthy sentence', this emphasizes the increased length.

sentence of considerable length

A more formal way of referring to a long sentence.

complex sentence

This alternative emphasizes the intricate structure of the sentence.

sentence that is too long

This directly expresses the sentence's excessive length.

overly long sentence

This highlights that the sentence is excessively long.

protracted sentence

This alternative implies the sentence is longer than necessary.

convoluted sentence

This refers to a sentence that is difficult to understand due to its complexity.

rambling sentence

This suggests the sentence lacks focus and clarity.

sentence with many clauses

This describes the sentence based on its grammatical structure.

FAQs

How can I identify a "long sentence" in my writing?

A "long sentence" typically contains multiple clauses and phrases, often exceeding 25-30 words. If you find yourself using many conjunctions or semicolons, it may be a sign that the sentence could be broken down for clarity.

What's the difference between a "long sentence" and a "complex sentence"?

While a "long sentence" is simply characterized by its length, a "complex sentence" contains an independent clause and at least one dependent clause. A sentence can be both long and complex, but it doesn't have to be.

When is it appropriate to use a "long sentence" in writing?

A "long sentence" can be effective when you want to convey a complex thought, create a sense of flow, or emphasize a particular idea. However, it's essential to use them judiciously and ensure they remain clear and easy to follow.

What can I do to improve a "long sentence" that is difficult to understand?

Try breaking the "long sentence" into shorter, simpler sentences. You can also rephrase the sentence to use more direct language and avoid unnecessary clauses or phrases. Ensure that each clause has a clear subject and verb.