Long Term vs. Longterm – Which is Correct?
The correct phrase is long term (two words) or long-term (hyphenated, when used as an adjective before a noun). The single word longterm is a common misspelling and should be avoided in formal writing. Understanding this distinction is crucial for clear and professional communication.
Long Term or Longterm – Which is Correct?
The core difference between “long term” and “longterm” lies in their grammatical acceptance and spelling. Long term, as two separate words, is the grammatically correct and widely accepted form. It functions either as a noun phrase (e.g., “in the long term”) or as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb (e.g., “plan long term”).
When used as an adjective modifying a noun (e.g., “long-term goals”), the hyphenated form long-term is preferred and standard. The single word longterm, however, is considered a misspelling or a non-standard variant. Its emergence is likely due to phonetic confusion and a tendency to incorrectly merge common phrases into single words, similar to how “everyday” (adjective) is often confused with “every day” (adverbial phrase).
Understanding the specific contexts for each form is key, especially when considering the nuances of Long Term vs. Long-Term usage.
The Best Trick to Remember the Difference
To remember whether to use “long term” or “longterm,” think about the role the phrase plays in the sentence and consider its counterpart, “short term.” You would never write “shortterm” as a single word when referring to a brief period. Similarly, “longterm” is generally incorrect.
- If you can insert another word between “long” and “term” (e.g., “long and arduous term”), or if it functions as a distinct noun or adverbial phrase, use long term.
- If it’s describing a noun directly before it (e.g., a “long-term” plan), remember the hyphen: long-term.
- Avoid longterm entirely. It’s simply not standard English.
| Word | Part of Speech / Usage | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| long term | Noun phrase / Adverbial phrase | An extended period of time; over an extended period. | “We must consider the impact on the long term.” |
| long-term | Adjective (hyphenated) | Relating to or continuing over a long period of time. | “She has a long-term investment strategy.” |
| longterm | Misspelling | Incorrect spelling of “long term” or “long-term.” | “The company has a longterm plan.” (Incorrect) |
How to Use Long Term
“Long term” is primarily used in two correct ways: as a noun phrase or as an adverbial phrase. It maintains a standard, often formal, tone suitable for business, academic, and general communication.
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As a noun phrase: Referring to a considerable period of time. Often preceded by an article or preposition.
Example 1: “It’s important to focus on the benefits in the long term, not just immediate gains.”
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As an adverbial phrase: Modifying a verb to indicate that an action or state occurs over an extended duration.
Example 2: “These policies are designed to pay dividends long term.”
Crucially, when “long term” functions as an adjective directly preceding a noun, it should be hyphenated as “long-term.” This creates a compound adjective. This is a very common and important usage to distinguish.
Example 3: “Scientists are studying the long-term effects of the new medication.”
Etymology of the word Long Term
The phrase “long term” is a combination of two distinct Old English words. “Long” comes from Old English lang, meaning “extended in space or time.” “Term” derives from the Latin terminus, meaning “end, boundary, limit,” which entered English via Old French terme. Over time, “term” evolved to mean a period of time with set limits, or simply a period of time. The combination “long term” thus literally means an “extended period of time.”
Related Concepts
Understanding broader grammatical concepts helps clarify why “long term” is typically two words (or hyphenated) and “longterm” is incorrect.
- Compound Words: Compound words can be written in three ways: as separate words (open compound, e.g., “ice cream”), hyphenated (hyphenated compound, e.g., “mother-in-law”), or as a single word (closed compound, e.g., “sunflower”). “Long term” is an open compound when used as a noun or adverbial phrase, and a hyphenated compound when functioning as an adjective before a noun. “Longterm” attempts to be a closed compound but is not standard.
- Adjectives vs. Adverbs: Adjectives modify nouns, while adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. “Long-term” acts as an adjective (describing a plan), while “long term” can function adverbially (describing how something pays off). Recognizing their grammatical role helps ensure correct spelling and hyphenation.
- Phrasal Nouns and Adverbs: Many English expressions are phrasal, meaning they consist of multiple words that function together as a single part of speech. “Long term” falls into this category, acting as a noun phrase or an adverbial phrase.
Examples from Media and Literature
- “We need to think about the long term implications of our energy choices.” — The Guardian
- “A true leader considers the long-term well-being of their constituents, not just immediate popularity.” — From a political commentary
- “The company’s success depends on its ability to cultivate long-term relationships with customers.” — Harvard Business Review
- “The project required a significant investment, but the returns were expected in the long term.” — From an economic report
- “Her long-term memory remained intact, even as her short-term memory faded.” — From a medical journal
Long Term Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Extended period | A duration of considerable length. |
| Distant future | A future time far removed from the present. |
| Protracted | Lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual. |
| Enduring | Lasting over a long period; durable. |
| Long-lasting | Continuing for a great length of time. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Is “longterm” ever acceptable?
While you might occasionally see “longterm” in very informal contexts or specific niche publications, it is generally considered incorrect and non-standard. For all formal, academic, and professional writing, you should use “long term” (two words) or “long-term” (hyphenated adjective).
Question 2: When should I use “long-term” with a hyphen?
The hyphenated form “long-term” should be used exclusively when it functions as an adjective directly preceding a noun. For example, “a long-term plan,” “long-term goals,” “long-term commitment.” When it’s not acting as an adjective before a noun (e.g., “in the long term”), the hyphen is omitted.
Question 3: What’s the difference between “long term” and “long-term”?
The difference is grammatical function. “Long term” (two words) is a noun phrase (e.g., “for the long term”) or an adverbial phrase (e.g., “plan long term”). “Long-term” (hyphenated) is a compound adjective used to describe a noun that follows it (e.g., “long-term solution”).
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the correct usage of “long term” versus “longterm” is straightforward: long term (two words) is correct when used as a noun or adverbial phrase, and long-term (hyphenated) is correct when used as an adjective before a noun. The single word “longterm” is a pervasive misspelling and should be avoided in all professional and formal writing.
Pro Tip: Always proofread carefully, especially for common compound word errors. Using the correct spelling demonstrates attention to detail and enhances your professional reputation, ensuring your message is communicated clearly and effectively.
