Word
long-time
Meanings
Having lasted or existed for a long period, often many years.
For a long period of time.
Definition
Lasting for a long period, especially over many years.
Long-time describes something that has existed, continued, or been true for many years. It is often used before a noun to show a strong sense of duration, especially in relationships, habits, or arrangements. It can also be used as an adverb to mean “for a long time.”
Examples
- She is a long-time supporter of the local theatre and rarely misses a premiere.
- We finally met our long-time neighbors at the block party and talked well past midnight.
- He returned to his long-time research topic after a brief detour into a different field.
- They long-time suspected the wiring was faulty, but the problem only became obvious during the storm.
- I invited my long-time mentor to the graduation ceremony because my career owes a lot to her guidance.
Common mistake
Learners often miss the hyphen before a noun (e.g., write "a long time friend" instead of "a long-time friend").
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.