English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
As long as
Meaning
The idiom "as long as" is a conjunction that is used to connect two clauses, expressing the idea that something must be done or maintained, provided that certain conditions are met. It can also be used to express the idea that something will continue to happen or be true if certain conditions are not violated.
Usage
- I'll be happy to help you, as long as you provide me with all the necessary information. (implies that the person must provide all the information in order for help to be provided)
- You can have anything you want from me, as long as you treat me with respect. (implies that respect must be shown in order for anything to be given)
- I'll come to the meeting if you promise not to cancel it last minute. (implies that the person must keep their promise in order for the other person to attend the meeting)
- You can stay here as long as you don't make any noise. (implies that silence must be maintained in order for the person to stay)
- I'll continue to support you as long as you work hard and maintain good grades. (implies that grades must be kept high in order for support to continue) The usage of "as long as" can vary depending on the context, but it is always used to connect two clauses and express a condition. It can also be used to express a hypothetical situation or to make a promise.
Roots and History
There are several theories about the origin of "as long as", but one common theory suggests that it comes from Old English "asecgan" which means "to speak". The phrase was used to indicate that someone was speaking, and it eventually evolved into an expression of conditionality. Over time, the phrase has taken on its current meaning and usage in contemporary language.
Synonyms in English
- In order to...
- As a result of...
- Provided that...
- If...then...
- On the condition that...
Synonyms in other languages
- En tant que... (French)
- 只要... (Chinese)
- 恕れば... (Japanese)
- حتى... (Arabic)
- أرنا الشركة فيه قبل أو المدينة بالدولة فيه قبل القضية العمونية منمتر ثلاثي في القضية العمونية في المدينة الشركة فيه قبل... (Arabic)