Long term or longterm? Neither one is the best choice by itself. Use “long-term” with a hyphen before a noun (a long-term plan), and “long term” as two words after “the” (in the long term). “Longterm” is not standard spelling.
Let’s break down the rule with simple examples.
Long Term or Longterm: The Simple Rule
The spelling changes with how the words work in the sentence:
- Long-term (with a hyphen) is an adjective. It describes a noun, like “plan,” “goal,” or “job.”
- Long term (two words) is a noun. It usually follows words like “in the” or “over the.”
- Longterm (one word) is a spelling mistake in most writing.
Correct Examples of “Long-Term”
Use the hyphen when it comes before a noun:
- “We need a long-term plan.”
- “She wants a long-term job.”
- “This is a long-term goal.”
- “He has a long-term friendship with Sam.”
Correct Examples of “Long Term”
Use two words when it works as a noun:
- “In the long term, this will save money.”
- “Over the long term, exercise helps your health.”
- “Think about the long term before you decide.”
Incorrect Examples
- “We need a longterm plan.” (Wrong)
- “She wants a long term job.” (Better with a hyphen: long-term job)
- “In the long-term, this will save money.” (Better as two words: in the long term)
What About After the Noun?
When “long-term” comes after the noun, many writers drop the hyphen or keep it. Both are seen, but keeping the hyphen is a safe choice:
- “The plan is long-term.” (Safe and clear)
Style guides can differ a little on this, so if you write for a school, a company, or a website with its own rules, follow them.
Quick Tip to Remember
Ask yourself: is it describing a noun? If yes, add the hyphen: “long-term plan.” If it is the noun itself, keep two words: “in the long term.”
And simply remember: never write “longterm” as one word. The same hyphen rule applies to in person vs inperson.
Long Term or Longterm: Quick FAQ
Is “longterm” a word?
Not in standard English. You may see it in casual online writing, but it is best to avoid it.
Do I need a hyphen in “long-term”?
Yes, when it comes before a noun, such as “long-term care” or “long-term goals.”
What is the opposite of long-term?
The opposite is “short-term,” and it follows the same rule. Use a hyphen before a noun (“a short-term job”) and two words as a noun (“in the short term”).
Final Thoughts
To sum up, use “long-term” before a noun, “long term” when it acts as a noun, and avoid “longterm.” Once you see how the word is working in the sentence, the right spelling is easy to pick.
The same rule works for many pairs, like “short-term” and “full-time.” Learning it once helps you in lots of places. Mistakes with spaces are common in English. Another example is as well or aswell.
If you are still unsure, check whether the phrase describes something. That small question solves most cases. And if you are planning your long-term goals at work, check the spelling in our guide on career vs carrer too.