long stretch of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long stretch of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an extended duration or period, often implying that it feels significant or noteworthy. Example: "After a long stretch of time without communication, I finally heard from my old friend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Seven years — a long stretch of time, especially incarcerated.

The New York Times

There's something very satisfying about the way this story covers a long stretch of time.

The New Yorker

The writing session was followed, for a long stretch of time, by a day job with the postal service.

The New Yorker

But some leave much more, and then expect the items back after a long stretch of time.

The New York Times

There was a long stretch of time where that's all anyone would want to hear when I played gigs.

The Guardian - Music

A long stretch of time elapses before you realise that not a word of dialogue has been spoken.

The Guardian - Film

What's amazing, and maybe a little unsettling, about King is the consistency of his purpose and his manner over that long stretch of time.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

She stopped eating for long stretches of time.

The New York Times

Ms. Allen spent long stretches of time not going outside.

The New York Times

For that matter Kennedy was often absent from home for long stretches of time.

The New York Times - Books

Commuting rates drop precipitously, and bike lanes can be empty for long stretches of time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When indicating a period of recovery or inactivity, "long stretch of time" can be used to convey the challenges and adjustments involved.

Common error

While acceptable, "long stretch of time" can sometimes sound less formal. In academic or business writing, consider more concise alternatives like "extended period" or "prolonged duration" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long stretch of time" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an adverbial modifier. It describes the duration or extent of an action, event, or state. Ludwig AI provides many examples from news articles, books and more.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long stretch of time" is a common and acceptable way to describe an extended duration. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and prevalence across various sources, especially News & Media. While grammatically correct and widely understood, remember that in more formal writing, you might opt for alternatives like "extended period" or "prolonged duration". When you want to emphasize not only the duration but also the perceived length or impact of that duration, "long stretch of time" is perfect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Extended duration

Focuses on the length of time rather than the feeling of it.

Prolonged period

Highlights the continuation of the time frame.

Lengthy span

Emphasizes the extent of time.

Considerable duration

Indicates a notable amount of time.

Significant period

Highlights the importance of the time frame.

Extensive timeframe

Emphasizes the scope of the time being discussed.

Appreciable lapse

Suggests that the time passed is noticeable.

Substantial interval

Indicates a sizable amount of time separating events.

Protracted phase

Implies that the time is part of a development or process.

Elongated timeframe

Similar to extensive timeframe, but highlights stretching out the time.

FAQs

What does "long stretch of time" mean?

A "long stretch of time" refers to a considerable or extended duration, suggesting a significant period has elapsed or will elapse.

How can I use "long stretch of time" in a sentence?

You can use "long stretch of time" to describe any situation where an extended duration is relevant. For example: "After a "long stretch of time" without rain, the crops began to suffer."

What are some alternatives to "long stretch of time"?

Alternatives include "extended period", "prolonged duration", or "lengthy span". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a long time stretch" instead of "long stretch of time"?

While understandable, "a long time stretch" is less idiomatic and sounds awkward. The standard and more natural phrasing is "a "long stretch of time"".