1
Core function
Over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
Example
The equipment is expensive initially but saves money in the long run.
in the long run
/ɪn ðə lɒŋ rʌn/ · in thuh LONG runlong-term phrase
Over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
Use in the long run to express this relationship precisely: over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
What in the long run Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Scope in a sentence
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
In the long run, soil recovery depends on restoring native vegetation.
3
Analytical effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The policy may reduce output now while improving resilience in the long run.
Use in the long run Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The equipment is expensive initially but saves money in the long run.
In the long run, soil recovery depends on restoring native vegetation.
The policy may reduce output now while improving resilience in the long run.
Precision Matters
In the long run overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in the long run
vs.Means over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
in the short term
Means during the near future or over a limited period.
in the long run
vs.Means over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
from then on
Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
in the long run
vs.Means over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
meanwhile
Means indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
in the long run
vs.Means over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
in turn
Means mark the next step in a sequence or a result that then produces another result.
Test in the long run in Context
The benefit is expected over an extended period rather than immediately.
1
The restoration requires years of maintenance, but ___ it should make the wetland self-sustaining.