Longness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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longness

[ˈlɒŋnəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

measurement

The state or quality of being long in measurement; lengthiness.

Synonyms

lengthiness, longevity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
longness

As noted previously, it is rarely used and refers to the state or quality of being long, but it's less common in everyday usage.

  • The longness of the journey tired everyone out.
lengthiness

Used to describe something that is unnecessarily long and can have a negative connotation. Often used in reference to speeches, texts, or processes.

  • The lengthiness of the professor's lecture made the students lose interest.
  • The lengthiness of the legal process can be frustrating.
longevity

Refers to the duration of life or existence, often used in contexts related to life span, careers, or products.

  • Longevity is an important factor when considering a pet.
  • The longevity of the brand is a testament to its quality.
  • Researchers study the factors that contribute to human longevity.

Examples of usage

  • The longness of the river made it perfect for kayaking.
  • The longness of the queue at the amusement park was frustrating for visitors.
Context #2 | Noun

duration

The extent or duration of time something lasts.

Synonyms

duration, length.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
longness

Primarily used in a more poetic or literary context to describe something that feels extended or prolonged, often not just physically but also metaphorically.

  • The longness of the night made her restless.
  • He couldn't bear the longness of their separation.
length

Commonly used to describe the measurement of something from end to end, or to discuss the extent of time in a more general context. It is the most versatile word among the group.

  • The length of the table is six feet.
  • We discussed the project at length.
duration

Used to refer to a specific period of time during which something occurs or continues. This term is frequently used in formal or technical contexts.

  • The duration of the movie was two hours.
  • You should rest for the entire duration of your illness.

Examples of usage

  • The longness of the meeting made everyone tired.
  • The longness of the winter seemed never-ending.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, length is a fundamental measurement that helps define the dimensions of objects and is critical in various calculations.
  • The metric system, widely used around the world, defines length using meters, highlighting how longness can vary across contexts.
  • Longness affects animal behavior; for instance, certain species grow longer as they age, impacting their mobility and habitat.

Art & Literature

  • In poetry, 'longness' can symbolize enduring feelings, such as longing or nostalgia, adding emotional weight to the text.
  • Many artists play with the concept of length in their works, using elongated forms to create tension or movement in visual pieces.
  • Literature often explores themes related to the passage of time, with longness representing memory and experience over years.

Culture

  • In some cultures, long necks are considered a symbol of beauty, illustrating how longness can represent cultural values.
  • Festivals around the world often celebrate long-lasting traditions, emphasizing endurance over time in various practices.
  • In architecture, the prominence of tall buildings in urban areas signifies progression and human ambition in creating lengthy structures.

Mathematics

  • In geometry, 'length' is one of the basic dimensions, alongside width and height, used to describe the size and shape of objects.
  • The longest side of a right triangle, known as the hypotenuse, plays a crucial role in the Pythagorean theorem.
  • Mathematical formulas for calculating the perimeter or area of a shape often require an understanding of its 'longness' and dimensions.

Origin of 'longness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'longness' comes from 'long', which has roots in Old English 'lang' and Proto-Germanic '*langwaz'.
  • Historically, 'long' has been used in various cultures to describe distance and duration, showcasing its universal relevance.
  • In Middle English, the concept of length was closely tied to both physical objects and time, illustrating its dual significance.

The word 'longness' is a derivative of the adjective 'long,' which has Old English and Germanic origins. The suffix '-ness' is added to 'long' to form 'longness,' creating a noun indicating the state or quality of being long. 'Longness' is not as commonly used as 'length' or 'duration,' but it serves a specific purpose in emphasizing the extent or lengthiness of something.


See also: along, alongside, long, longed, longevity, longing, longingly, longings, oblong, prolong.