adj
Common
lang
LANG
Lang (adj) means Long (a Scots and Northern English dialect word). Example: “It's been a lang time since I saw ye.”
adj
1
Long (a Scots and Northern English dialect word).
"It's been a lang time since I saw ye."
How to use lang
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dialect word simply meaning "long," used in Scots and northern English speech.
When to use it
Dialectal/Scots — not used in standard written English.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- langer
- Superlative
- langest
Fill the gap
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It's been a _____ time since I saw ye.
Etymology
From Northern Middle English lang, the northern form of long.
Rhymes for lang
See all rhymes for lang →Frequently asked questions
What does “lang” mean?
The word “lang” means long (a Scots and Northern English dialect word). In plain terms, a dialect word simply meaning "long," used in Scots and northern English speech.
How do you pronounce “lang”?
“Lang” is pronounced LANG (/ˈlæŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “lang” in a sentence?
Here is “lang” used in a sentence: “It's been a lang time since I saw ye.”
What part of speech is “lang”?
“Lang” is an adjective.
Where does the word “lang” come from?
The word “lang” comes from Middle English. From Northern Middle English lang, the northern form of long.
Is “lang” a common word?
“Lang” is a fairly common word in modern English.
Is lang the same as long?
Yes, lang is essentially a dialect form meaning long. It is used in Scots and Northern English dialect rather than in standard English.
Where would you expect to hear lang used instead of long?
Lang turns up in Scots speech and writing, and in Northern English dialects, often in traditional phrases, place names, or older texts. In standard English writing, long is used instead.
Is lang considered formal or informal English?
Lang is a dialect word rather than standard English, so it reads as informal or regional. It would generally not be used in formal or standard written English outside of dialect representation.
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