English Reference
Idiom idiom

long run


An extended period of time.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

“Saving money now helps you in the long run.”

CONTEXTUAL

“Learning a new language is difficult at first, but it pays off in the long run.”

COMPLEX

“Although the initial investment in sustainable energy is substantial, the long run benefits for the environment and the economy are undeniable.”


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little of something goes a long way

    Only a small amount of something is usually required to produce a great effect.

  2. 02

    a week is a long time in politics

    In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.

  3. 03

    as the day is long

    Unceasingly; very; thoroughly; to a very high degree.

  4. 04

    break into a run

    To start running.

  5. 05

    come a long way

    To make significant progress.

  6. 06

    common run

    Ordinary persons, things, or events.

  7. 07

    draw a long bow

    To lie; to exaggerate.

  8. 08

    draw the long bow

    To exaggerate; to tell tall tales.

Last updated August 10, 2026