substantially longer than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantially longer than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the length of two items, indicating that one is significantly greater in length than the other. Example: "The new report is substantially longer than the previous version, containing more detailed analysis and data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The report runs substantially longer than the average for general aviation accidents, however.

The New York Times

Every agricultural plot is a distinctive rectangle, with some substantially longer than others.

The Guardian

Mr Bennett's capacity to breathe was restricted and the restraint "continued for substantially longer than was safe".

The Guardian

A18 Pledges Foster Abstinence A study found that many teenagers who take public virginity pledges delay having intercourse substantially longer than those who do not.

The New York Times

But John and Danielle Ginnetti's place is more lounge than restaurant — the cocktail menu is substantially longer than the food menu.

The New York Times

It also happens to still be subject to a trade embargo imposed by the US government that has lasted substantially longer than the Bey-Jay marriage.

The Guardian

For many treatments, patients are now waiting substantially longer than the 18-week target from patient being referred by their GP to being seen in clinics.

The Guardian

They also are racially discriminatory: as a group, white women live substantially longer than black men, who are therefore less likely to get the discount.

The New York Times

By the time Mr. Perkins completed his Maltese Falcon, measuring 288 feet, in 2006, it was substantially longer than Mr. Clark's Athena if measured at the water line.

The New York Times

The judge told a stunned jury pool that the trial could take "substantially longer" than most cases -- three to four months -- drawing some gasps.

The New York Times

Her latest jail stay, however brief, is still substantially longer than a 2007 visit to the Lynwood facility, when she was in and out in under 90 minutes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantially longer than", ensure that the comparison is clear and that the difference in length is significant enough to warrant the descriptor.

Common error

Avoid using "substantially longer than" when the difference in length is minimal or insignificant, as this can weaken your argument or create a misleading impression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantially longer than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by describing it as having a length or duration that is significantly greater than something else. Ludwig AI examples confirm its use in making direct comparisons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

59%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "substantially longer than" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed comparative phrase used to highlight a significant difference in length or duration. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across various domains, particularly in news, media and scientific writing. When employing this phrase, ensure the comparative difference is genuinely substantial. Alternatives such as "significantly longer than" or "considerably longer than" can offer stylistic variation, but it's key to maintain accuracy in portraying the magnitude of the difference. Overall, "substantially longer than" is a versatile and reliable tool for expressing comparative lengths when precision and clarity are paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Significantly longer than

Emphasizes the importance or impact of the difference in length.

Considerably longer than

Highlights the notable extent of the difference in length.

Much longer than

A more general way to express a large difference in length.

Appreciably longer than

Implies that the difference in length is easily noticeable.

Noticeably longer than

Suggests the difference is evident and easily observed.

Materially longer than

Focuses on the practical or tangible significance of the difference.

Far longer than

Simple way to express a bigger difference in length.

Dramatically longer than

Underlines a very striking difference in length.

Distinctly longer than

Emphasizes the clear and unmistakable difference in length.

Markedly longer than

Highlights that the length is noticeably different.

FAQs

How can I use "substantially longer than" in a sentence?

Use "substantially longer than" to compare the length of two things, indicating that one is much greater in length or duration than the other. For example: "The new study period was "significantly longer than" the previous one, allowing for more comprehensive data collection."

What are some alternatives to "substantially longer than"?

Alternatives include "significantly longer than", "considerably longer than", or "much longer than". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "substantially longer than" in formal writing?

Yes, "substantially longer than" is appropriate for formal writing, including academic and professional contexts. It clearly and effectively conveys a significant difference in length or duration.

What's the difference between "slightly longer than" and "substantially longer than"?

"Slightly longer than" indicates a minimal difference in length, whereas "substantially longer than" indicates a significant and noticeable difference. Use the phrase that accurately reflects the magnitude of the difference you're describing.