go back a long way

/ɡˌəʊ bˈak ɐ lˈɒŋ wˈeɪ/

/ɡˌoʊ bˈæk ɐ lˈɑːŋ wˈeɪ/

to go back a long way

to known someone for a very long time, implying a sense of familiarity, trust, and understanding that comes with a history of shared experiences and memories

to [go] back a long way definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "go back a long way" and when to use it?

The origin and history of the idiom "go back a long way" are unclear, but it is likely that it developed from the idea of a physical distance that people have traveled together over time. The phrase has been in use since at least the early 19th century and was originally used to refer to journeys or expeditions that had taken a long time to complete. Over time, the phrase began to be used more figuratively to describe the length of time that people had known each other or had been associated with each other in some way.

to have a long history or past association with something

What is the origin of the idiom "go back a long way" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "go back a long way" is rooted in the literal sense of physical distance and time. The idea of going back in time or retracing one's steps has long been associated with the concept of history and personal relationships. The phrase can also be used to emphasize the historical context of a particular event, institution, or tradition

Examples

1. John and Mary go back a long way.

2. So these splits around race and racial justice and slavery go back a long way.

3. Basically, you have to go back a long way in men's fashion to find them.

4. Now the good thing is that we've made seven movie with Jacques, since 1994, so it's a lot goes by, we go back a long way and he wanted me also to be taking chances, doesn't want to be, me to be safe and try and imitate or follow, he wants me to find a new path, or a different path.

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