long sought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long sought" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has been desired or pursued for a significant amount of time. Example: "After years of research, the scientists finally discovered the long sought cure for the disease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Basques have long sought autonomy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

excludes Hamas, which has long sought entry.

The New York Times

Glory days, "the realm long sought".

The Guardian - Books

They have long sought a "theory of everything".

The Economist

Western environmental groups have long sought such a measure.

The New York Times - Science

The new policy was long sought by investor advocates.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

The ability to analyse, interpret and ultimately predict cellular behaviour is a long sought-after goal.

BMC Systems Biology

The insula might be the long sought-after brain region for serotonin-mediated yawning.

Brain Structure and Function

The decade also brings long-sought-after literary acclaim.

The Economist

Also, a long-sought basketball arena was built on campus.

The New York Times

At last, Polanski's long-sought Oscar seemed within reach.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "long sought" to emphasize the duration and importance of the pursuit, particularly when the object of the search is finally attained or realized.

Common error

Avoid using "long sought" in contexts where a simpler phrase like "desired" or "needed" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long sought" functions as a compound adjective modifying a noun. It indicates that something has been desired or pursued for an extended period. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is indeed correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long sought" effectively communicates that something has been desired or pursued for a considerable duration. As Ludwig AI states, the expression is correct and usable in written English. Its grammatical function is that of a compound adjective, adding emphasis to the noun it modifies. While versatile enough for various contexts, it is most frequently found in News & Media and Science, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When writing, using it properly can help emphasize the importance and duration of a pursuit, but do avoid overusing it. Alternatives, such as "much-desired" or "long-awaited", offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Therefore, choose them accordingly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

much-desired

Highlights the strong desire for something.

long-pursued

Focuses on the action of pursuing over a long duration.

long-awaited

Stresses the element of waiting for something to happen.

earnestly sought

Emphasizes the sincerity and effort in seeking something.

eagerly anticipated

Emphasizes the excitement and expectation surrounding something.

persistently sought

Highlights the continuous and unwavering effort in the search.

assiduously pursued

Highlights the persistent and diligent effort in pursuing something.

sought after for years

Expresses the duration of the search more explicitly.

longed for

Similar to 'yearned for', but perhaps with a slightly less intense feeling.

yearned for

Implies a deep longing or craving for something.

FAQs

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

You can use "long sought" to describe something that has been desired or pursued for a significant amount of time, such as "The scientists discovered the "long sought cure" for the disease".

What are some alternatives to "long sought"?

Alternatives include "much desired", "long awaited", or "eagerly anticipated", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "long sought" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "long sought" leans towards formal or neutral registers. In informal writing, consider using simpler alternatives that convey the same meaning, but are a better fit for the tone.

What is the difference between "long sought" and "sought after"?

"Long sought" emphasizes the duration of the search or desire, while "sought after" highlights the desirability or popularity of something. For example, "a long-sought solution" versus "a sought-after expert".