Meaning and Usage
The adjective "长远" (chángyuǎn) describes something that relates to a long period of time or the distant future. It is often used to emphasize planning, vision, or effects that extend beyond the immediate or short term.
Common Contexts
"长远" frequently appears in contexts like development plans, investments, goals, and perspectives. For example, "长远发展" means long-term development, and "长远利益" means long-term benefits.
Collocations and Patterns
- 长远发展 (long-term development): used when discussing sustainable growth or future-oriented progress.
- 长远规划 (long-term planning): refers to strategic plans that consider the future.
- 从长远来看 (in the long run): a common phrase to introduce a perspective considering future consequences.
Nuances
Using "长远" implies a thoughtful, strategic approach that values future outcomes over immediate gains. It often contrasts with short-term thinking. Avoid confusing it with "远" alone, which simply means "far" in a spatial or temporal sense without the nuance of duration or planning.
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"长远" is neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, especially in business, education, and policy discussions.