What is the comparative form of “hourlong”?
The comparative form of “hourlong” is “longer”.Example
The movie was longer than I expected.
Example
She took longer to finish the race than her competitors.
What is the superlative form of “hourlong”?
The superlative form of “hourlong” is “longest”.Example
Out of all the movies, this one is the longest.
Example
He holds the record for the longest jump in the competition.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with long, longer, and longest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more long' and 'most long' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, longer and longest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Long does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Long → Longer Superlative: Long → Longest
Expressions with similar meanings to “longer”
Used to describe something that is longer in terms of duration or length
Example
The lengthier version of the film includes additional scenes.
Example
The meeting went on for a more extended period of time than anticipated.
Used to indicate something that is longer than usual or expected
Example
The prolonged winter caused delays in construction projects.
Expressions with similar meanings to “longest”
Similar to longest, this emphasizes the highest level of length or duration
Example
The lengthiest book in the series is over 1000 pages long.
Example
The most extended version of the concert includes additional songs.
Used to describe the highest level of length or duration, often beyond what is expected
Example
The storm resulted in the prolonged closure of schools and businesses.
Using than with comparative “longer”
When using the comparative form longer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The movie was longer than I expected." Here, than is used to show that the duration of the movie is greater than the expected duration.
How can I use this expression in context?
“longer” and “longest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Movies
The director's cut is longer than the theatrical version.
The director's cut is longer than the theatrical version.
- 2Races
He finished the marathon in the longest time among all the participants.
He finished the marathon in the longest time among all the participants.
- 3Books
The final installment in the series is the longest book.
The final installment in the series is the longest book.
- 4Events
The concert lasted for the longest duration compared to previous years.
The concert lasted for the longest duration compared to previous years.
- 5Journeys
The transatlantic flight is the longest route operated by the airline.
The transatlantic flight is the longest route operated by the airline.
Related idioms and phrases
In the long run
Over a long period of time; eventually.
Example
Investing in education will pay off in the long run.
A long shot
An attempt or effort that has little chance of success.
Example
Winning the lottery is a long shot, but it's worth a try.
Long time no see
A greeting used when meeting someone after a long period of time.
Example
Hey! Long time no see. How have you been?
