lengthy
Lengthy (adj) means going on for a long time, often longer than expected or wanted. Example: “We sat through a lengthy speech that felt as if it would never end.”
adj
1
Going on for a long time, often longer than expected or wanted.
"We sat through a lengthy speech that felt as if it would never end."
"After a lengthy delay, the flight finally boarded."
"The contract includes a lengthy list of conditions."
How to use lengthy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishLong — usually used about something dragging on, like a speech, wait, or document.
When to use it
Often carries a mild negative shade, implying the thing is longer than it needs to be.
Common pairings
a lengthy discussion
a lengthy process
a lengthy delay
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Word forms
- Comparative
- lengthier
- Superlative
- lengthiest
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We sat through a _____ speech that felt as if it would never end.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “lengthy” mean?
The word “lengthy” means going on for a long time, often longer than expected or wanted. In plain terms, long — usually used about something dragging on, like a speech, wait, or document.
How do you use “lengthy” in a sentence?
Here is “lengthy” used in a sentence: “After a lengthy delay, the flight finally boarded.”
What part of speech is “lengthy”?
“Lengthy” is an adjective.
Is “lengthy” a common word?
“Lengthy” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between lengthy and long?
Lengthy and long both describe something that goes on for a considerable time or distance, but lengthy often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting the duration is longer than expected or wanted. Long is more neutral and can be used without implying tedium or excess.
Is lengthy formal or informal?
Lengthy is commonly used in both formal and everyday English, and it appears frequently in written contexts such as reports, articles, and official documents to describe extended duration or text.
Can lengthy describe both time and text?
Yes, lengthy can describe a lengthy meeting or process that takes a long time, as well as a lengthy document or explanation that is long in length or detail. In both cases it implies the duration or extent is greater than expected.
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