"At length" is a commonly used phrase that means in great detail or thoroughly. Its spelling can be a bit confusing, as it contains a silent "g." The IPA phonetic transcription for "at length" is /ət lɛŋθ/. The first sound, /ə/, is the short schwa sound. The next two sounds, /t/ and /l/, are easy to identify. The tricky part is the final sound, /θ/, which is the voiceless dental fricative. The silent "g" is simply a result of historical spelling conventions.
At length is an idiomatic expression commonly used to indicate a thorough or detailed discussion, explanation, or account of something. It refers to a situation where a topic or subject matter is extensively explored, leaving no stone unturned to convey an in-depth understanding or provide comprehensive information about it.
When something is discussed at length, it implies that the speaker or writer has provided a comprehensive analysis or examination of the matter, often incorporating various viewpoints, arguments, or evidence to support their statements. The intention is to leave no aspect untouched, to address any possible questions or doubts that may arise, and to ensure a thorough understanding by the audience.
The phrase can be employed in various contexts, such as academic papers, articles, essays, debates, or even informal conversations where a detailed account or clarification is sought. It suggests that time and effort have been invested in exploring the subject matter extensively, taking into consideration all relevant angles, facts, and perspectives.
In conclusion, "at length" signifies the comprehensive treatment, examination, or analysis of a topic, ensuring that it is discussed thoroughly and exhaustively, leaving no key details or information unaddressed. By using this phrase, speakers or writers aim to convey a sense of meticulousness and completeness in their exploration or explanation.
The phrase "at length" comes from Middle English, and ultimately has its roots in Old English and Old Norse.
The word "length" can be traced back to the Old English word "lengþu" or "lengð", which means "longness" or "duration". This word was influenced by the Old Norse word "lengd" with the same meaning.
The preposition "at" in this context indicates the point in time or condition, and originates from Old English "æt" or "at", which also existed in Old Norse as "at".
Therefore, the combination "at length" meaning "in detail" or "fully" has been in use since the Middle English period, around the 14th century, evolving from the Old English and Old Norse origins of its component words.