longer

Come back when you can stay longer.

Come back again sometime when your visit can be longer. (Often said by a host or hostess to departing guests.) John: I really must go. Sue: So glad you could come. Please come back when you can stay longer. Bill: Well, I hate to eat and run, but I have to get up early tomorrow. Mary: Well, come back when you can stay longer.

See also: back, can, come, stay

difficult is done at once; the impossible takes a little longer

Prov. Tasks that are only difficult are done immediately, harder tasks take longer. (Describes a very competent group or person.) The secretary in our office is extremely capable. She has a little sign on her desk that says, "The difficult is done at once; the impossible takes a little longer." In her case, it's not a joke.

See also: difficult, done, little, take

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take the long view

to think about the effects that something will have in the future instead of in the present If you take the long view, of course, you can regard staff training as an investment for the company.

See also: long, take, view

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take the long view also take the longer view

to think about the effects that something will have in the future If you take the long view, computer training for your staff is an investment in increased productivity.

Related vocabulary: in the long term

See also: long, take, view