the long term
noun
: a long period of time after the beginning of something
She is investing for the long term.
I think it's the better choice over the long term.
an investment that should do well in the long term
These changes may improve profits now, but they are going to cost us money in the long term.
Examples of the long term in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
That is going to cost more money in the short term, more money in the long term.
—
Adam Bearne, NPR, 3 June 2024
Pillar Pain and Other Complications of Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Summary
Carpal tunnel surgery is considered a safe and effective way to relieve symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in the long term.
—Scott Sundick, Verywell Health, 3 June 2024
Red Lobster became a plaything for financial engineers, a condition that almost never — if ever — leads to an improved consumer experience and greater profits in the long term.
—Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2024
Netanyahu has stated that Israel does not want to occupy Gaza in the long term.
—Dana Stroul, Foreign Affairs, 20 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for the long term 
Adam Bearne, NPR, 3 June 2024
Pillar Pain and Other Complications of Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Summary
Carpal tunnel surgery is considered a safe and effective way to relieve symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in the long term.
—Scott Sundick, Verywell Health, 3 June 2024
Red Lobster became a plaything for financial engineers, a condition that almost never — if ever — leads to an improved consumer experience and greater profits in the long term.
—Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2024
Netanyahu has stated that Israel does not want to occupy Gaza in the long term.
—Dana Stroul, Foreign Affairs, 20 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for the long term
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'the long term.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near the long term
Cite this Entry
“The long term.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20long%20term. Accessed 15 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share