# for a long time

idiom · CEFR A1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/for-a-long-time
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

This phrase means something happens or continues for many hours, days, weeks, or years.

## Examples

- I have lived in this city for a long time.
- We waited for a long time at the station, but the train never arrived.
- Having studied the ancient manuscript for a long time, the professor finally discovered the hidden meaning behind the faded ink.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.