long sigh

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long sigh" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to express a feeling of relief, frustration, or weariness. Example: After a long day at work, she let out a long sigh of relief. Alternative expressions include "deep sigh" and "prolonged sigh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

A long sigh.

Independent

All one long sigh.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Long sigh from Graham.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Org lets out a long sigh.

The New Yorker

She heaved a long sigh.

The New Yorker

[Long sigh] What's the question?

The Guardian - Film

Nour lets out a long sigh.

The Guardian

The salesman let out a long sigh.

The New Yorker

Mr. Ekstract gave a long sigh.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Only long sigh-like bursts now occur, without regular bursts.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

I loved the family and everything…it just…[long sigh], I just wasn't able to function like that for long at that time or be that person.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In creative writing, combine the phrase with sensory details—such as closing eyes or slouching shoulders—to strengthen the imagery.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase with redundant verbs like "sighed a long sigh" unless you are aiming for a specific poetic effect. Instead, use more active constructions such as "let out a long sigh", "gave a long sigh", or "heaved a long sigh".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long sigh" functions as a noun phrase composed of the adjective "long" and the noun "sigh". It typically serves as the direct object of a transitive verb. According to Ludwig AI, it frequently appears with verbs of expression such as "let out", "heave", or "draw".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Literature & Arts

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academic Research

3%

Legal Documents

1%

Technical Manuals

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "long sigh" is a versatile and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote an extended exhalation that signifies a specific emotional state. Analysis from Ludwig AI shows that it is exceptionally common in News & Media and literary contexts, where it helps provide narrative texture. Whether you are describing a character's relief or a professional's exasperation, the phrase is a reliable tool. While it is almost always used correctly as an object, writers should be mindful of verb variety—using "let out" or "heaved"—to avoid repetitive sentence structures. Its universal recognition makes it a safe and effective choice for any writer looking to add emotional depth to their prose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drawn out sigh

Focuses specifically on the slow, elongated release of breath.

deep sigh

Emphasizes the physical depth or intensity of the breath rather than just the duration.

prolonged sigh

A formal synonym emphasizing that the sigh was extended beyond normal duration.

heavy sigh

Suggests a greater emotional burden or weight behind the action.

protracted sigh

A more formal or clinical term for a sigh that lasts for a long time.

weary sigh

Highlights the exhaustion or fatigue of the person sighing.

soft sigh

Indicates the volume is low, often suggesting a quiet moment of reflection.

resigned sigh

Implies the sigh represents an acceptance of a difficult or unwanted situation.

exasperated sigh

Directly attributes the emotion of frustration or annoyance to the action.

audible sigh

Focuses on the fact that the sound was clear and noticeable to others.

FAQs

How do you use "long sigh" in a sentence?

You can use it as a noun phrase to describe a reaction, for example: "She let out a long sigh of relief when the news arrived."

What is the difference between a "long sigh" and a deep sigh?

While a "long sigh" focuses on the time it takes to exhale, a "deep sigh" focuses on the volume of air and the intensity of the breath.

Can "long sigh" be used in formal writing?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable in journalistic and narrative writing. In highly academic or scientific contexts, you might see "prolonged exhalation" used instead.

What can I say instead of "long sigh" to show frustration?

To emphasize frustration, you could use "exasperated sigh" or "heavy sigh".