What does lengthily mean?
Lengthily means at great length, with considerable detail, explanation, or time devoted to something. It is used when describing how a person speaks, writes, argues, explains, or performs an action. For example, a committee may discuss a proposal lengthily before reaching a decision, while a speaker may lengthily recount the history of an event. The adverb can be neutral when thoroughness is appropriate, but it often carries a mildly critical implication that the treatment is more extensive than necessary. In everyday writing, the shorter phrase “at length” is usually more natural, as in “She explained the situation at length.” Lengthily is therefore especially useful when emphasis is placed on the manner or duration of an explanation rather than merely its result.
adverbIn a way that takes a long time or uses many words; at great length.
- For a long time or in great detail.
"The professor explained the complexities of quantum physics at length."
"The two governments debated the issue lengthily before reaching an agreement."
"She lengthily explained why the project had been delayed."
Some answers need a paragraph; lengthily describes when they need a whole lecture.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lengthily come from?
Lengthily was formed in the 19th century by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to the adjective lengthy. Lengthy in turn derives from length, an Old English word whose Germanic relatives include Dutch lengte and German Länge. All of these words ultimately trace their origin to a common Germanic root associated with extending or measuring something.
Related word forms
How lengthily is actually used
The word is formal and often suggests that the amount of time, words, or explanation is excessive, although its tone may range from neutral to mildly critical.
Easily confused with lengthily
Lengthy is an adjective describing something that lasts a long time or takes up much space, whereas lengthily is an adverb describing the manner of speaking, writing, or acting.