Dictionary
English - Japanese

Length

lɛŋ(k)θ
Very common
~ 1100
~ 1100
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.

長さ (ながさ), 長さ (ながさ) in a figurative sense, 長さ (ながさ) in a metaphorical sense

Length meanings in Japanese

長さ (ながさ)

Example:
The length of the table is two meters.
テーブルの長さは2メートルです。
Please measure the length of this rope.
このロープの長さを測ってください。
Usage: formal/informalContext: Used in measurements, geometry, and discussions about physical dimensions.
Note: 長さ is often used in both everyday contexts (like measuring objects) and technical contexts (like engineering or mathematics).

長さ (ながさ) in a figurative sense

Example:
The length of the story was unexpected.
その話の長さは予想外でした。
We discussed the length of the project during the meeting.
会議中にプロジェクトの長さについて話し合いました。
Usage: formal/informalContext: Used to describe duration, extent, or amount of time in narratives, projects, or discussions.
Note: In this context, 長さ can refer to how long something takes or how extensive it is, not just physical dimensions.

長さ (ながさ) in a metaphorical sense

Example:
She went to great lengths to prepare for the event.
彼女はそのイベントの準備に多大な長さをかけました。
He will go to any length to achieve his goals.
彼は目標を達成するためにどんな長さでも行くでしょう。
Usage: formal/informalContext: Used to express effort or commitment to achieve something.
Note: In this metaphorical context, 長さ implies the extent of effort or action taken rather than a physical measurement.

Length's synonyms

extent

Extent refers to the degree or magnitude of something, often used to describe the size or range of something.
Example: The extent of the damage was greater than we initially thought.
Note: Extent can imply a broader sense of measurement or scope compared to length.

duration

Duration refers to the length of time that something lasts or continues.
Example: The duration of the meeting was two hours.
Note: Duration specifically refers to the time aspect, unlike length which can refer to physical size or distance.

span

Span refers to the full extent or reach of something from one end to another.
Example: The span of the bridge is impressive, stretching over the river.
Note: Span often implies a sense of width or breadth in addition to length.

size

Size refers to the dimensions or proportions of something, including length as one aspect of measurement.
Example: The size of the room determined how many people could fit in it.
Note: Size encompasses various dimensions such as length, width, and height, while length specifically focuses on the measurement in one direction.

Length expressions, common phrases

At full length

This phrase means to be as long or fully extended as possible.
Example: She stretched out on the sofa at full length.
Note: The phrase 'at full length' emphasizes the complete extension or maximum distance of something.

Go to great lengths

To make a great effort or do whatever it takes to achieve something.
Example: She went to great lengths to make sure the surprise party was perfect.
Note: This idiom goes beyond physical length and refers to the extent or degree of effort put into achieving a goal.

Cut to the chase

To get to the main point or important part without wasting time.
Example: Let's cut to the chase and discuss the main points of the proposal.
Note: This phrase does not directly relate to physical length but means to get to the essential or crucial aspect of a situation.

Arm's length

To keep a certain distance or maintain a careful relationship with someone.
Example: They kept the new employee at arm's length until they got to know them better.
Note: This idiom uses the idea of physical distance to convey the concept of keeping a relationship at a certain level of closeness or detachment.

In the long run

Refers to a period of time in the future where the full effects or benefits of something will be seen.
Example: Investing in education will benefit you in the long run.
Note: This phrase looks at the extended period of time rather than just the physical length, focusing on the eventual outcome or consequences.

Shorten someone's leash

To reduce control or restrictions on someone, allowing them more freedom or independence.
Example: The manager decided to shorten the team's leash and give them more autonomy.
Note: While 'leash' refers to a physical length, this idiom is about limiting or extending control over someone rather than actual measurement.

Measure up

To be equal to a particular standard or measure of quality.
Example: She was worried if she would measure up to the expectations of her new job.
Note: This phrase relates to meeting a standard or expectation rather than the literal measurement of length.

Length everyday (slang) expressions

Long shot

Refers to something very unlikely or improbable to happen.
Example: It's a long shot, but maybe we can finish the project in time.
Note: The original word 'long' emphasizes the improbability of an event.

Long face

Used to describe a sad or disappointed facial expression.
Example: She had a long face after hearing the news.
Note: The slang term 'long face' focuses on the facial expression rather than literal length.

Long haul

Refers to a long distance or extended period of time.
Example: It's a long haul to get to the airport from here.
Note: The term 'haul' emphasizes the effort or endurance required over a long distance or time.

Long in the tooth

Refers to someone who is old or aging.
Example: He may be a bit long in the tooth for this kind of physical activity.
Note: The phrase 'long in the tooth' is a metaphor that describes the wearing down of teeth with age as an analogy for growing old.

Length - Examples

The length of the rope is 10 meters.
She measured the length of the table with a ruler.
The length of the movie was two hours.

Length grammar

Length - Noun (Noun) / Noun, singular or mass (Noun, singular or mass)
Lemma: length
Conjugations
Noun, plural (Noun, plural): lengths, length
Noun, singular or mass (Noun, singular or mass): length
Syllables, Separation and Stress
length Contains 1 syllables: length
Phonetic transcription: ˈleŋ(k)th
length , ˈleŋ(k)th (The red syllable is stressed)

Length - Importance and usage frequency

The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
length: ~ 1100 (Very common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
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