lang
long (in space) · long (in time)
Lang means 'long' in English, describing something that has a great length in space or time. It is used both for physical length (a long road) and duration (a long time). Germans often use it in time expressions like 'wie lange' (how long) or 'lange dauern' (to take long).
What lang means
- long (in space) — Describing physical length, e.g., a long street, long hair.
- long (in time) — Describing duration, e.g., a long time, long wait.
Heard in real German videos
Lines where lang was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Tja, wird wohl nicht mehr lange dauern.Well, it probably won't take much longer.
- Das dauert mir zu lange.This is taking too long for me.
- Wird nicht lange dauern.Won't take long.
Example sentences
- Der Fluss ist sehr lang.The river is very long.
- Wie lange dauert der Film?How long does the movie last?
- Sie hat lange Haare.She has long hair.
- Ich habe lange geschlafen.I slept for a long time.
Grammar
| Comparative | länger |
|---|---|
| Superlative | am längsten |
When used as an adverb of time, 'lange' is often used instead of 'lang' (e.g., 'lange warten').
Common phrases
- lange Zeita long time
- seit langemfor a long time
- lang und breitat great length
- über kurz oder langsooner or later
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often confuse 'lang' with 'lange' when talking about time. Use 'lange' as an adverb meaning 'for a long time' (e.g., 'Ich habe lange gewartet'), but 'lang' as an adjective (e.g., 'ein langer Film').
Don’t confuse it with
- lange — 'Lange' is the adverb form meaning 'for a long time', while 'lang' is the adjective meaning 'long'.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between 'lang' and 'lange'?
'Lang' is an adjective meaning 'long', while 'lange' is an adverb meaning 'for a long time'. Example: 'ein langer Weg' (a long way) vs. 'lange warten' (to wait for a long time).
How do you say 'How long does it take?' in German?
You say 'Wie lange dauert es?'
What is the comparative and superlative of 'lang'?
Comparative: länger (longer), Superlative: am längsten (longest).