somewhat longer than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhat longer than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the length of two objects, durations, or texts, indicating that one is slightly longer than the other. Example: "The new version of the report is somewhat longer than the previous one, containing additional data and analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hollywood faces a somewhat longer than usual campaign period.

The New York Times

They have been around for 50m years, which is somewhat longer than we have.

The Guardian

Estorra lasts somewhat longer than Ambien so perhaps could provide longer sleep.

The New York Times - Health

The two-clawed forelimbs are only somewhat longer than the hind limbs, which have three claws.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They needed only one; their victory hug was somewhat longer than you usually see between team-mates.

The Guardian - Sport

Although one gathers it takes somewhat longer than half a year to get past the painful parts.

The Guardian - Music

Contracts are for a minimum of three years—somewhat longer than Oracle is planning.Keep it simpleThat is a bargain.

The Economist

Somewhat longer than the Sheep's Head Way, at 125 miles, the Beara is better known and more traveled but just as lovely.

The New York Times - Travel

The bank will also continue to offer the so-called full allotment of credit at least until mid-October, somewhat longer than previous statements.

The New York Times

Mr. Moonves was referring to the penchant for movie studios to wait somewhat longer than other marketers to decide whether to buy Super Bowl commercials.

The New York Times

Because Croatia is the EU country with the longest land border with non-EU countries, somewhat longer than that of Finland/Russia (1,340km) and Greece/Turkey (1,248km).

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing lengths or duration make sure to express both measurement units.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat longer than" when greater precision is possible or necessary. If exact measurements are available, providing them is more informative than a vague comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat longer than" functions as a comparative expression, modifying a noun or noun phrase by indicating a moderate increase in length or duration. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "somewhat longer than" is a versatile comparative expression used to indicate a moderate difference in length or duration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, including scientific articles, news reports, and encyclopedic entries. While alternatives like "slightly longer than" or "a bit longer than" exist, "somewhat longer than" provides a balanced and neutral way to express a moderate increase. It is important to avoid overuse in situations where precise measurements are available and clarity is paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly longer than

Indicates a very small difference in length.

a bit longer than

A more informal way to express a small difference in length.

marginally longer than

Emphasizes that the difference in length is very small and perhaps barely noticeable.

just a little longer than

Highlights the small degree of difference in duration.

barely longer than

Similar to 'marginally longer', stressing the minimal difference.

fractionally longer than

Indicates that the length is only slightly more than the other.

ever so slightly longer than

Emphasizes the subtlety of the length difference.

a shade longer than

Uses a metaphorical term to indicate a slight difference.

a touch longer than

Suggests a minimal increase in duration.

a tad longer than

Informal way to denote a small difference in length.

FAQs

How do you use "somewhat longer than" in a sentence?

Use "somewhat longer than" to indicate that something is moderately longer in length, duration, or extent compared to something else. For example: "The new report is "somewhat longer than" the previous version".

What is a synonym for "somewhat longer than"?

A synonym for "somewhat longer than" could be "slightly longer than", "a bit longer than", or "marginally longer than", depending on the desired level of formality and precision.

Which is correct, "somewhat longer than" or "somewhat more long than"?

"Somewhat longer than" is correct. "Somewhat more long than" is grammatically incorrect; the comparative form 'longer' is already present, so 'more' is redundant.

What's the difference between "somewhat longer than" and "much longer than"?

"Somewhat longer than" implies a moderate difference in length or duration, while "much longer than" suggests a significant or substantial difference. The choice depends on the magnitude of the difference you want to convey.