längst

Længst is a Danish word that functions as the superlative form of the adjective lang, meaning the longest. It is used to denote the maximum length or extent within a group, and can appear in both adjective and adverbial roles. When describing a noun, Danish typically uses a definite form such as den længste or det længste (for example, den længste vej, the longest road).

Længst also serves as an adverb meaning the farthest or most in terms of duration or extent. For example, han løb længst means he ran the farthest. In phrases where a noun is not being singled out, længst can stand alone as the predicate form.

Etymology and cognates: Længst derives from the Danish word lang (long) and is part of a common Germanic pattern for forming superlatives. Its cognates appear in other Scandinavian languages, such as Norwegian lengst and Swedish längst, which are used in closely related ways to express the highest degree of length or extent.

Usage notes: In standard Danish, the definite attributive form is used to modify a noun (den længste vej, the longest road). The bare form længst is typically reserved for predication or adverbial use, such as indicating the farthest distance or greatest extent. Længst can also appear in fixed phrases like længst muligt, meaning “as long as possible.”

See also: Lang, length, comparative and superlative forms in Danish, Danish grammar.