SpeakUp

Grammar fix

in the long run

over time; after a long period

Used to talk about the final result or effect of something after a long period, rather than what happens immediately.

expressionC1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Eating healthily might seem difficult now, but it will pay off in the long run.daily life
  • While working long hours can help you earn more in the short term, I believe that in the long run, it could negatively affect your health and relationships, so balance is important.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: in the long run, [clause] / [clause] in the long run

WrongIn long run, you'll save money.

RightIn the long run, you'll save money.

Don't drop 'the' — 'in THE long run'.

Patternin the long run, [clause] / [clause] in the long run

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff Over an extended temporal horizon, it will prove worthwhile.

Natural In the long run, it'll be worth it.

'In the long run' is natural; 'over an extended temporal horizon' is absurd.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • in the long run
    it pays offcheaperbettersave

Don't confuse it

'Eventually' can mean 'after some time' but does not always focus on the overall outcome or result, while 'in the long run' highlights the final effect after a long period.

Try it in Daily Speak →