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I’m afraid, it took a long time. vs I'm afraid it took a long time.

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. The first phrase, 'I’m afraid, it took a long time,' is used when expressing concern or regret before stating a fact. The second phrase, 'I'm afraid it took a long time,' is used when expressing regret or apology for something that has already happened.

Last updated: March 15, 2024

I’m afraid, it took a long time.

This phrase is correct and commonly used when expressing concern or regret before stating a fact.

This phrase is used to express concern or regret before stating a fact. The comma after 'afraid' indicates a pause for emphasis.

Examples:

  • I’m afraid, it’s not going to work out as we planned.
  • I’m afraid, she won’t be able to make it to the meeting.
  • I’m afraid, the project deadline has been missed.
  • Jul 22, 2012 ... I'm afraid it took a long time for me to get a diagnosis which unfortunately is not uncommon. All in all it probably took 10 months from developing ...

Alternatives:

  • I’m afraid that it took a long time.
  • I’m afraid it took a long time.
  • I’m afraid, it has taken a long time.
  • I’m afraid, it will take a long time.
  • I’m afraid, it is taking a long time.

I'm afraid it took a long time.

This phrase is correct and commonly used when expressing regret or apology for something that has already happened.

This phrase is used to express regret or apology for something that has already happened. The absence of a comma indicates a direct statement.

Examples:

  • I'm afraid it took longer than expected.
  • I'm afraid it took a long time to find the right solution.
  • I'm afraid it took a long time to complete the task.
  • Jul 22, 2012 ... I'm afraid it took a long time for me to get a diagnosis which unfortunately is not uncommon. All in all it probably took 10 months from developing ...

Alternatives:

  • I'm afraid that it took a long time.
  • I'm afraid, it took a long time.
  • I'm afraid, it has taken a long time.
  • I'm afraid, it will take a long time.
  • I'm afraid, it is taking a long time.

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