1.
many years; long years; for a long time
A period spanning many years; used to describe something that has continued for a long time.
長年 means "for many years" or "over a long period of years." Emphasizes the accumulated duration.
Common collocations
- 長年の夢: a long-held dream
- 長年の経験: many years of experience
- 長年にわたって: over many years
- 長年住んでいる: having lived somewhere for many years
- 長年の努力: years of effort
Usage
Can function as both a noun (長年の + noun) and an adverb (長年 + verb). Implies dedication, persistence, or gradual accumulation.