Introduction
The English language is full of small but important distinctions, and one common source of confusion is whether to use long term or long-term. Are they interchangeable? Do the rules change based on sentence structure? Understanding the difference is essential for clear and professional communication.
This guide will break down the correct usage of long term and longterm, providing rules, examples, and tips to ensure you use them correctly in any context.
Understanding the Core Difference
The main difference between long term and longterm lies in their grammatical function:
- Long term functions as a noun phrase, meaning “an extended period.”
- Long-term functions as an adjective, meaning “lasting for a prolonged period.”
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Term | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long term | Noun phrase | A period of time that lasts a while | “Investing for the long term can be rewarding.” |
| Long-term | Adjective | Describes something that continues over time | “A long-term strategy is necessary for success.” |
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When to Use “Long Term” (Noun Phrase)
The phrase long term acts as a noun and refers to an extended period. It often follows prepositions like in, for, or over.
✅ Correct examples:
- “She is planning for the long term.”
- “Investing in real estate is a long term commitment.”
- “The benefits of healthy eating appear in the long term.”
❌ Incorrect examples:
- “She has a long-term in mind.” (Incorrect because “long-term” needs a noun to describe)
- “I plan to stay here for the long-term.” (Incorrect use of hyphenation in a noun phrase)
When to Use “Long-Term” (Adjective)
Long-term is an adjective, meaning it modifies a noun. It always includes a hyphen to show that the words function together.
✅ Correct examples:
- “We need a long-term strategy for growth.”
- “The company offers long-term benefits to employees.”
- “Pollution has long-term effects on the environment.”
❌ Incorrect examples:
- “This is a long term strategy.” (Incorrect because “long term” should be hyphenated when modifying a noun)
- “He has a long term investment plan.” (Incorrect because “long term” needs a hyphen to function as an adjective)
Grammar Rules and Hyphenation
Why does “long-term” need a hyphen? The answer lies in compound adjectives. English grammar follows these rules:
- Hyphenate compound adjectives before a noun (e.g., “a well-known author”).
- Do not hyphenate when the phrase functions as a noun (e.g., “The author is well known.”).
Other Common Hyphenated Adjectives
Many adjectives follow the same pattern:
| Adjective | Example |
|---|---|
| Full-time | “She has a full-time job.” |
| High-quality | “This is a high-quality product.” |
| Long-term | “He made a long-term commitment.” |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Writers often mix up long term and longterm, especially in formal writing. Here’s how to avoid errors:
- Check if the phrase describes a noun. If it does, use “long-term.”
- Look for a preposition (e.g., in, for, over). If the phrase follows one, use “long term.”
- Read the sentence aloud. If it sounds unnatural, you may need to adjust the hyphenation.
Real-World Usage and Style Guides
Different style guides provide specific rules for hyphenation. Here’s what they say:
- AP Stylebook: Always use “long-term” as an adjective, “long term” as a noun.
- Chicago Manual of Style: Recommends the same rule for clarity.
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Defines “long-term” as an adjective and “long term” as a noun phrase.
Industry-Specific Usage
Some industries use “long-term” more frequently than “long term.” For example:
| Industry | Common Usage |
|---|---|
| Finance | “Long-term investments perform better.” |
| Healthcare | “Long-term care is necessary for chronic conditions.” |
| Business | “A long-term strategy ensures success.” |
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Use?
To summarize:
- Use long term as a noun phrase (e.g., “thinking about the long term”).
- Use long-term as an adjective (e.g., “a long-term investment”).
Quick Rule of Thumb
If you can replace “long term” with “a long period” without changing the sentence’s meaning, it’s a noun. If it describes something, it’s an adjective and should be hyphenated.
Example:
- ✅ “She is planning for a long period.” → Use “long term.”
- ✅ “She has a long-period plan.” → Sounds odd, so use “long-term.”
Conclusion
Getting long term and long-term right is a small but essential detail that improves clarity in writing. By following these simple rules, you can ensure your grammar is correct in every context. Whether discussing a long-term strategy or considering the long term, proper usage makes all the difference!