long way around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long way around" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe taking a longer or more complicated route to reach a destination or achieve a goal. An example: "Instead of taking the shortcut, we decided to take the long way around to enjoy the scenery." Alternative expressions include "roundabout way" and "circuitous route."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

You might say we're going there the long way around!

The New York Times - Sports

It is the subject of opener Long Way Around, single Not Ready to Make Nice, Lubbock Or Leave It, So Hard and the closing I Hope.

The Guardian - Music

The film's generous helpings of the Dixie Chicks' music culminate with thrilling performances of "The Long Way Around" and "Not Ready to Make Nice" from the recent album.

The New York Times

I needed to take the long way around.

The New Yorker

He had to take the long way around.

The Guardian - Sport

It was the long way around the mountains.

The New York Times

That's what we all do: endlessly take the long way around.

The New Yorker

THE European Central Bank (ECB) tends to take the long way around.

The Economist

"He passed me going up that hill, then took the long way around to the bridge.

The New Yorker

I drove the long way around the block to avoid Amador Street on my way home.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

" Additionally, "the game's rather obtuse, long-way-around approach to problem solving" caused what IGN viewed to be unnecessary delays to the game.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "long way around" when you want to emphasize that a process or journey is not the most direct or efficient, but perhaps more scenic or exploratory. For example, "We took the "long way around" the city to avoid the highway traffic".

Common error

Avoid using "long way around" when a direct approach is clearly superior and the indirectness implies incompetence or inefficiency. In such cases, a more neutral phrase like "alternative route" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long way around" functions as a noun phrase that typically modifies a verb. It indicates the manner in which an action is performed, specifically implying an indirect or circuitous method. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in describing routes, explanations, and approaches.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

24%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "long way around" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe an indirect or circuitous route or approach. As Ludwig AI indicates, its usage spans various contexts, particularly in news and media. While not the most direct, it often suggests a deliberate choice for exploration or avoidance. When writing, be mindful of the connotation, ensuring it aligns with the intended message; otherwise, consider alternatives such as ""roundabout route"" or ""indirect approach"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roundabout route

Focuses on the route itself being indirect.

circuitous path

Emphasizes the winding and indirect nature of the path.

indirect approach

Highlights the lack of a direct method.

convoluted method

Suggests a complex and unnecessarily complicated method.

winding course

Implies a path with many turns and deviations.

deviating route

Highlights the departure from a straight or expected path.

lengthy detour

Focuses on the extended nature of the alternative route.

meandering path

Suggests a leisurely and unhurried indirect route.

extended route

Emphasizes the longer distance compared to a direct route.

complex trajectory

Implies a complicated and not easily understood path.

FAQs

How can I use "long way around" in a sentence?

You can use "long way around" to describe taking an indirect route or a more complicated method to achieve something. For example, "He took the "long way around" to explain the problem, but eventually, we understood".

What's a similar phrase to "long way around"?

Alternatives to "long way around" include "roundabout route", "indirect approach", or "circuitous path". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it ever better to take the "long way around"?

Sometimes, yes. Taking the "long way around" can be beneficial when you want to explore, avoid something, or gain a deeper understanding of a subject, even if it's not the most efficient method.

What's the difference between "long way around" and "short cut"?

"Long way around" describes an indirect and often longer path, while "short cut" refers to a quicker and more direct route. They are essentially opposites.