this length of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this length of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific duration or period being discussed or considered. Example: "We have been waiting for this length of time, and it is becoming increasingly frustrating."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"To postpone it for this length of time is dangerous.

Independent

It is concerning that the book implies that this length of time is acceptable.

The New York Times

We have, of course, created nothing that has lasted anything like this length of time.

The Guardian - Film

The last time they were in the top flight for this length of time was 1981.

The Guardian - Sport

It's impossible to do this job for this length of time without some things going wrong.

The Guardian - Music

Sitting on one for this length of time is public service of the highest order.

The Guardian

After this length of time (in seconds) has expired, the next stored pattern is displayed.

Cornell University

But to postpone it for this length of time is dangerous.

Independent

After this length of time, there should be a consensus of what they are trying to achieve.

The Guardian - Opinion

So why it's taken this length of time, I think they do have some questions to answer," he said.

The Guardian

It is rare for a movie star who's on his way up to commit this length of time".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a specific duration that has already been established in the context, using "this length of time" can provide clarity and avoid repetition. For example: "The experiment lasted for three hours. Maintaining that temperature for "this length of time" is crucial for accurate results."

Common error

Avoid using "this length of time" when the duration hasn't been clearly defined or is ambiguous. Always ensure the context provides a clear reference point for the duration you are indicating, otherwise, use a more specific measurement such as "three hours" or "two weeks".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this length of time" functions as a demonstrative determiner phrase. It specifies a particular duration, often referring back to a previously mentioned or understood period. Ludwig AI examples shows its frequent usage in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this length of time" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a specific duration, frequently referring to a period already established within a given context. With a neutral register, it's suitable for various communication styles, as evidenced by its presence across diverse sources, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and utility of this phrase, it's essential to ensure clear context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "this period" or "this duration" can offer conciseness, but "this length of time" provides specific emphasis on the timeframe. By understanding its function and appropriate usage, you can effectively incorporate "this length of time" into your writing to achieve clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this duration

Replaces "length of time" with a more concise synonym, focusing solely on the duration.

this period

Uses "period" as a synonym for "length of time", offering a slightly more general term.

this timespan

Combines "time" and "span" to emphasize the extent of the duration.

this interval

Substitutes "length of time" with "interval", suggesting a measured or defined period.

this stretch of time

Emphasizes the continuous nature of the duration.

this amount of time

Focuses on the quantity of time, using "amount" as a quantifying noun.

this phase

Replaces "length of time" with "phase", referring to a stage in a process.

this timeframe

Uses "timeframe" to denote a specific period within which events occur.

this term

Substitutes "length of time" with "term", emphasizing the duration of a defined period.

this chapter

Replaces "length of time" with "chapter", a division that emphasize the duration of an event.

FAQs

How can I use "this length of time" in a sentence?

Use "this length of time" to refer back to a previously mentioned duration. For example: "The process requires 24 hours. Maintaining the temperature for "this length of time" is crucial."

What phrases are similar to "this length of time"?

Similar phrases include "this period", "this duration", or "this timespan", which all refer to a specific amount of time.

Is it correct to say "for this length of time"?

Yes, it's correct. The preposition "for" is often used before "this length of time" to indicate the duration of an activity or state. For example: "We waited for "this length of time"."

What's the difference between "this length of time" and "a long time"?

"This length of time" refers to a specific duration already mentioned or understood in the context. "A long time" is a more general, subjective expression indicating an extended or indefinite period. Therefore, "this length of time" offers greater precision when referring to an exact timeframe.