longstanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "longstanding" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it when describing something as having a long history or having existed for a long period of time. For example: "The Smith family has had a longstanding business in this town for several generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I hope that their comments will further strengthen our longstanding call to reverse the overreach of these pieces of legislation.

The Guardian

In Iguala, the attack highlighted longstanding allegations that the mayor, José Luis Abarca, all but shared municipal authority with a local cartel, Guerreros Unidos.

The Guardian

"Doing so won't simply demonstrate respect for a longstanding part of their audience, but it will align Hollywood film with other media in telling more authentic stories that represent the full diversity of our society and encourage greater understanding.

The Guardian - Film

Personally, I fancy Margaret Tyzack in anything, and Peter O'Toole has a longstanding connection with the Old Vic: it was his Hamlet in the 1950s that got Richard Eyre interested in the theatre.

The Guardian

Former Baywatch star Anderson, a longstanding animal rights activist, wrote an open letter to the ALS Association, saying she could not support its record on animal experimentation.

The Guardian

A longstanding commitment to unilateral nuclear disarmament also enabled nationalists to present themselves as more leftwing than Labour, and while on Trident they clearly were, it conveniently overshadowed similarities in economic terms.

The Guardian

A longstanding passion project for McQueen, whose wife first found the book (which was then out of print), it was formally announced in August 2011.

The Guardian - Film

Climate change is also high on protesters' and politicians' agendas, and the German chancellor, Angela Merkel, called for the industrial powers to throw their weight behind a longstanding pledge to seek $100bn £65bnn) to help poor countries tackle climate change, agreed in Copenhagen in 2009.

The Guardian

He also has a longstanding "galáctico" policy, which involves paying huge sums for superstar footballers such as Ronaldo, Zidane, Kaká, Figo, Beckham and the other Ronaldo.

The Guardian - Sport

Prof Chris Rapley Professor of climate science, University College London Ian Blatchford declares that the Science Museum "has a longstanding relationship with Shell".

The Guardian

Denis has a longstanding association with Tindersticks' singer Stuart Staples and the band have provided several soundtracks to her films, including White Material.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "longstanding", ensure the context clearly establishes the duration and significance of the subject being described. For instance, specify how many years or generations the subject has persisted for greater impact.

Common error

Avoid using "longstanding" for events or situations that have only existed for a short time. It's more appropriate for matters that have spanned several years or even decades. If the period is recent, consider using "recent" or "new".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "longstanding" is as an adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that it has existed for a significant period. Ludwig AI confirms this usage. Examples include "longstanding agreement" or "longstanding issue."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Film

6%

Sport

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "longstanding" functions as an adjective used to describe something that has existed for a considerable duration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently used in neutral registers, especially in news and media contexts. When using "longstanding", ensure the context clearly establishes the duration and significance of the subject. Consider alternatives like "long established" or "well established" for nuanced meanings. Be aware of its overuse in situations that don't justify its emphasis on duration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

long-established

Focuses on the fact that something has been set up or founded a long time ago.

well-established

Emphasizes the firm and secure position something has achieved over time.

time-honored

Highlights that something is respected because it has existed for a long time.

long-term

Focuses on the duration of something, indicating it is expected to last for a significant period.

enduring

Stresses the capacity of something to last or remain over time.

time-tested

Implies something has proven its value or effectiveness over a long period.

historical

Relates something to the past and its significance over time.

traditional

Emphasizes that something follows established customs or beliefs passed down through generations.

deep-rooted

Suggests something is firmly established and difficult to change.

age-old

Highlights the great age or antiquity of something.

FAQs

How can I use "longstanding" in a sentence?

You can use "longstanding" to describe relationships, traditions, issues, or policies that have existed for a considerable amount of time. For example, "They have a longstanding friendship" or "The company has a longstanding commitment to sustainability".

What are some alternatives to using "longstanding"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "long established", "well established", or "time honored" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it redundant to say "longstanding tradition"?

While traditions are inherently long-lasting, using "longstanding tradition" can emphasize the deep historical roots and enduring nature of the tradition. However, consider if "tradition" alone sufficiently conveys the intended meaning.

What is the difference between "longstanding" and "longtime"?

"Longstanding" generally refers to something that has existed or been in place for a long time, while "longtime" typically describes someone who has been involved or associated with something for a long duration. For example, you might say "longstanding policy" versus "longtime employee".