wait long enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'wait long enough' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something waiting for a length of time that is deemed sufficient in order to achieve a desired outcome. For example, 'If you wait long enough, the results will come'.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"He just didn't wait long enough basically.

The New York Times

She just didn't wait long enough.

The New York Times - Health

But wait long enough, and the old becomes new again.

The New York Times - Travel

We waited for the train to slow down, but didn't wait long enough.

The New York Times

If you wait long enough, a new Terrence Malick film comes around.

The New Yorker

And like all of fashion, if you wait long enough, it'll come back around again".

The New York Times - Food

"We'd want to wait long enough for something to have really gone down".

The Guardian - Film

But for those companies that can wait long enough, the benefits can be substantial.

The New York Times

Possibly the best there is, because if you wait long enough, the truth will come out".

The New York Times - Tech

If you wait long enough -- say, 30 seconds or so -- you're guaranteed clarifying gunfire.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

We all know that in fashion--if you wait long enough--each trend will come around again.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wait long enough" when you want to emphasize that a certain amount of time is necessary to achieve a desired outcome. Consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the required duration.

Common error

Avoid using "wait long enough" when immediate action is required. This phrase implies a period of inactivity, which might be counterproductive in urgent situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wait long enough" functions as an adverbial phrase of time, modifying a verb or clause to specify the duration required for a particular outcome to occur. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wait long enough" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to advise patience and the passage of time for a desired outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile enough for both formal and informal contexts, though its frequency is highest in news and media. When using this phrase, be mindful of situations that demand immediate action, and remember that it implies a degree of inaction while time passes. For alternatives, consider phrases like "be patient" or "give it some time" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give it some time

Emphasizes allowing time for something to develop or resolve.

be patient

Focuses on the virtue of patience rather than a specific duration.

remain patient

Highlights the importance of continued patience.

hold on for a while

Suggests a temporary pause or delay.

exercise patience

Stresses the active application of patience.

bide your time

Implies waiting strategically for a favorable opportunity.

let time pass

Simply indicates the passage of time without specifying the reason.

stick it out

Implies enduring a difficult situation until the end.

stay the course

Suggests maintaining a consistent approach over time.

persevere

Emphasizes continued effort despite challenges.

FAQs

How can I use "wait long enough" in a sentence?

You can use "wait long enough" to indicate that a desired outcome will occur if one is patient. For instance, "If you "wait long enough", the truth will come out."

What are some alternatives to "wait long enough"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "be patient", "give it some time", or "bide your time".

Is it appropriate to use "wait long enough" in formal writing?

Yes, "wait long enough" is generally acceptable in both formal and informal writing. However, consider the specific tone and audience to ensure it fits the overall context. More formal alternatives might exist, such as "exercise patience".

What does "wait long enough" imply about the situation?

The phrase "wait long enough" suggests that the outcome is not immediately apparent and requires a certain duration of time or inaction to unfold. It often implies that patience is necessary to achieve the desired result.