the same length of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the same length of time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing durations or periods of time that are equal in length. Example: "Both projects will take the same length of time to complete, so we can start them simultaneously."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They stay in treatment the same length of time and have similar outcome rates".

The New York Times - Health

But Eagleman insisted that all the pictures appeared for the same length of time.

The New Yorker

I've known Cathy the same length of time, and there's nobody in athletics I respect more.

The Guardian - Sport

"That's the same length of time as an actor's contract in Stratford," Boyes explains.

The Guardian - Arts

Did you commit to each experiment for the same length of time?

The New Yorker

Goodell could still decide to suspend them, conceivably for exactly the same length of time.

The New York Times - Sports

Let us hope it does not take the Élysée the same length of time to accept its crimes in Rwanda.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Arman's commute takes about the same length of time, though he drives to work in Dover.

The New York Times

The effect can enable athletes to keep going longer or to go faster in the same length of time.

The New York Times - Health

I go to the games with two friends, we've all been going the same length of time.

The Guardian - Sport

So a kind of justice follows — the perpetrator is out for the same length of time as the victim.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing time-sensitive actions or durations, ensure that "the same length of time" is followed by a specific unit (seconds, minutes, hours, days, etc.) to provide clear and quantifiable information.

Common error

Avoid using "the same length of time" when only approximate durations are intended. If the durations are not precisely equal, consider using phrases like "about the same time" or "roughly the same duration" to accurately reflect the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the same length of time" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying verbs or clauses by specifying the duration of an action or event. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the same length of time" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote equivalence in duration across various contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is widely accepted and frequently used. It's particularly common in news, scientific writing, and general informative content. When writing, ensure its use clarifies the temporal context and consider alternatives like "equal duration" for formal settings. Avoid using it for approximate durations; instead, opt for phrases like "about the same time". By following these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately use "the same length of time" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal duration

Emphasizes the duration aspect, highlighting that the lengths are equal.

identical time span

Uses "identical" to stress the exact match in the time interval.

equivalent time period

Focuses on the period, implying that the intervals are similar in nature and extent.

same duration

A shorter, more direct way of expressing equal time.

equal time

Simplifies the phrase, maintaining the core meaning of time equivalence.

matching timeframe

Highlights that the frames of time are in agreement

commensurate time

Suggests that the timeframes are appropriately proportionate.

synchronous period

Emphasizes that the time periods occur together or align.

corresponding duration

Indicates that the lengths of time align with each other.

duplicate timeframe

Implies an exact repetition in the temporal frame.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "the same length of time" to sound more formal?

For more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "equal duration", "identical time span", or "equivalent time period". These alternatives add a layer of formality while retaining the core meaning.

Is it correct to say "as the same length of time" instead of "the same length of time"?

No, the correct phrasing is "the same length of time". Adding "as" before "the same" is grammatically incorrect and unnecessary. Stick to "the same length of time" for accurate usage.

How does "the same length of time" compare to "the same amount of time"?

"The same length of time" and "the same amount of time" are often used interchangeably. However, "length" is generally preferred when referring to a specific, measurable duration, while "amount" is used more broadly. They both convey the concept of equal duration.

What is the best way to use "the same length of time" in a sentence?

To use "the same length of time" effectively, ensure it clearly modifies the verb or noun it relates to. For example, "Both processes take the same length of time" or "The experiment ran for the same length of time as the control". Clarity is key for precise communication.