The word "longer" is spelled with the letter "g" in the middle, but the "g" is silent. The correct pronunciation is /ˈlɒŋər/. The "o" in the first syllable is a long vowel sound, represented by the symbol /ɒ/. The second syllable contains the "n" and "g" letters, but only the "n" is pronounced. The pronunciation of the final syllable is represented by the short vowel sound /ə/. Therefore, the correct spelling for this word is "longer", not "longar".
Longer is an adjective that refers to a greater extent of length or duration compared to something else. It signifies the measurement or duration from one end to the other, usually denoting a greater distance or time span. In the context of length, it implies being extended or stretched out more in comparison to a reference point. For example, if an object is longer than another, it means it has a greater dimension or size from end to end. This could apply to physical objects such as a longer rope, road, or dress.
When it comes to duration, longer conveys the idea of a larger amount of time or a prolonged period compared to a specific timeframe or event. For instance, if an activity takes a longer time, it requires more minutes, hours, or days to complete than initially anticipated. Similarly, if a person stays longer at an event, it suggests they are spending a greater amount of time there than originally planned.
In various contexts, longer serves as a comparative form of the adjective "long," emphasizing a greater extent or duration, whether in physical measurements or time intervals. It serves to indicate an extended length or duration in relation to a particular reference point, presenting a clear contrast or distinction between two or more objects or periods.
• Comp. deg. of long; of greater length.
• For a greater duration.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "longer" originated from the Old English word "langor". It is derived from the Old English adjective "lang", which means "long" or "lengthy". Over time, this adjective acquired the comparative suffix "-or", resulting in the word "langor", meaning "longer". Over the centuries, the spelling and pronunciation evolved, and "longer" came to refer to something that has a greater length or duration compared to a previous state or something else.