The phrase "long for" is often spelled with the letter "o", but the sound it makes is more accurately represented by the IPA phonetic symbol /ɔ/. This sound is similar to the "aw" sound in "law", but with a more open mouth position. The spelling of this word can be confusing for English learners, as the letter "o" often makes different sounds depending on the word. However, with practice and familiarity, correctly spelling "long for" with the phonetic symbol /ɔ/ can become second nature.
The phrase "long for" is an idiomatic expression that typically refers to a strong, deep desire or yearning for something or someone. It is often used to describe an intense longing or a heartfelt wish.
When one "longs for" something or someone, they feel a profound and often overwhelming desire to possess, achieve, or experience it. This yearning is characterized by a deep emotional and personal connection to the object of longing. The sentiment often implies a sense of emptiness or incompleteness without the desired person or thing.
This expression can refer to a variety of desires, such as longing for a lost love, yearning for a particular experience or opportunity, or even craving for a distant place. To "long for" can also encompass a nostalgic longing for the past or an earnest desire for a different future.
The phrase "long for" conveys a sense of a persistent and unfulfilled craving. It suggests a yearning that extends over a significant period, emphasizing the intensity and strength of the feeling. The longing experienced is often associated with a deep emotional attachment or a felt absence in one's life.
In summary, "long for" expresses a passionate and profound desire, capturing the intensity and depth of heartfelt yearning for something or someone.
The word "long for" has its origins in Old English. The verb "long" comes from the Old English word "langian", which meant "to stretch out" or "to reach out for". Over time, the meaning of "long" evolved to include a sense of desire or craving. The preposition "for" simply indicates the object of that desire. Therefore, when we say "long for", we are expressing a strong desire or yearning for something.