# long-term

/ˈlɔŋˌtɝm/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/long-term
Updated: 2026-10-10

## Definition

lasting for a long time into the future. You use this to describe plans, effects, or relationships that you expect to continue for many years.

For teachers: relating to or extending over a relatively long period of time. Typically used to describe goals, consequences, or investments that span several years or decades.

## Examples

- We need a long-term plan for our business.
- Doctors are still studying the long-term effects of the new medication to ensure it remains safe after years of use.
- While the immediate costs of the environmental policy are high, the long-term benefits to public health and infrastructure far outweigh the initial investment.

## Pitfalls

- Not "a long term goal" but "a long-term goal" — When used as an adjective before a noun, the phrase should be hyphenated.

## Usage notes

- Usually hyphenated when it appears before a noun; often used without a hyphen as a noun phrase ('in the long term').

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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.