During That Long Time vs. During This Long Time

Attribute	During That Long Time	During This Long Time
Time Frame	That	This
Reference Point	Past	Present
Distance	Farther	Closer
Context	Previous	Current

Meaning and Usage

Both "during that long time" and "during this long time" are phrases that refer to a period of time that has passed or is currently ongoing. The main difference between the two lies in the perspective of the speaker. "During that long time" is used when referring to a past period of time, while "during this long time" is used when referring to a current or ongoing period of time.

Temporal Perspective

When using the phrase "during that long time," the speaker is looking back at a specific period in the past. This could be a time frame that has already concluded or is no longer relevant to the present moment. On the other hand, when using the phrase "during this long time," the speaker is referring to a period of time that is currently happening or is still relevant to the present moment.

Clarity and Specificity

While both phrases convey a sense of time passing, "during that long time" may be seen as more vague and less specific compared to "during this long time." The use of "that" in the former suggests a more distant or removed time frame, whereas the use of "this" in the latter indicates a closer or more immediate time frame. This distinction can help provide clarity and specificity in communication.

Emotional Connotations

The choice between "during that long time" and "during this long time" can also carry emotional connotations. "During that long time" may evoke feelings of nostalgia or reflection on the past, while "during this long time" may evoke a sense of urgency or importance in the present moment. The emotional impact of each phrase can influence how it is perceived by the listener.

Examples in Context

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between "during that long time" and "during this long time" in context:

• "During that long time, I learned a lot about myself and my values." (referring to a past period of personal growth)
• "During this long time, we have been working tirelessly to achieve our goals." (referring to a current period of hard work)

Conclusion

While both "during that long time" and "during this long time" convey a sense of time passing, they differ in their temporal perspective, clarity, emotional connotations, and specificity. The choice between the two phrases can impact the overall tone and meaning of a statement. By understanding the nuances of each phrase, speakers can effectively communicate their intended message and convey the appropriate sense of time and emotion.