come a long way
come a long way (idiom)
/kʌm ə lɔːŋ weɪ/
Meaning
- To achieve a much higher level of success than in the past. For example, an individual who began as a junior employee and is now a company executive has come a long way.
- To make significant progress or improvement over time. For instance, technological advancements have come a long way in the last decade, enhancing our daily lives.
- To exhibit considerable development or advancement from an earlier state. For example, a student who once struggled academically but now excels has come a long way.
Example Sentences
- She came a long way from her small-town beginnings to become a successful entrepreneur.
- If we work hard and stay focused, we will come a long way in achieving our goals.
- Their friendship has come a long way despite the challenges they faced.
- The project came a long way from a simple idea to a groundbreaking innovation.
- With dedication and practice, you can come a long way in mastering a new skill.
- Our city’s public transportation system has come a long way in the last decade.
- From handwritten letters to instant messaging, communication has come a long way.
Origin and History
One prevalent theory suggests that the phrase originated in the 19th century, drawing a parallel between physical travel and personal or societal advancement. During this era, long-distance travel was arduous, often involving journeys by horse and carriage. Successfully completing such trips required resilience and determination. Consequently, the expression “come a long way” began to symbolize not just the completion of a physical journey but also the attainment of significant progress or success in various endeavors.
Etymology of “Way”
Delving into the etymology of the word “way” provides additional insight. Historically, “way” has meant “road” or “path,” and has been integral to numerous idiomatic expressions in English. The Online Etymology Dictionary notes that the figurative sense of “come a long way” dates back to 1922, indicating that the phrase was used metaphorically to denote significant progress by the early 20th century.
Earliest Printed Records
Identifying the exact first appearance of “come a long way” in print is challenging. While the figurative use is noted around 1922, earlier instances may exist but remain undocumented due to limitations in historical records. Some sources provide definitions and usage examples but do not specify the phrase’s first appearance.
Cultural Impact and Evolution
The phrase gained notable cultural prominence in the late 1960s through Virginia Slims cigarette advertisements targeting women. The campaign’s slogan, “You’ve come a long way, baby,” linked the idiom to themes of women’s liberation and empowerment, reflecting societal shifts and the evolving role of women. This association further cemented the phrase’s place in popular culture.
Synonyms
- make great strides
- go far
Variants
- came a long way
- coming a long way
- will come a long way
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