in the long term

Over extended periods

In the long term describes what happens over an extended period, as opposed to immediate effects.

It frames outcomes that may take years or decades to unfold: In the long term, the investment should pay off.

Often contrasted with in the short term.

The phrase signals patience or perspective—acknowledging that current circumstances may differ from eventual results.

Related

evolution · slow burn · legacy · perpetuity · ripple effect · sustainability · future proof · scalability · resilience · foresight · duration · horizon · delayed gratification · prioritization · growth · timeline · investment · nest egg

Opposites
temporal horizon

in the long termin the short run

For a brief period

short-term · immediately · right now · for now · for the time being

permanence vs. transience

in the long termtemporarily

For a limited time

briefly · fleetingly · momentarily · transiently · for a little while

Family

long, term, longer, longest, length, lengthen, lengthy, elongate, elongation

Familiarity
Top 50,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Everyday, not technical · Rated G