Use 'in the long run' to express consequences or results that will happen after a lot of time has passed. Skipping classes might be fun now, but in the long run, your grades could suffer.
Pro Tip 2/3
Patience Implied
The phrase often suggests that patience is needed before the outcome or benefit is seen. Learning a new language is frustrating, but in the long run, it's incredibly rewarding.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not Immediate
'In the long run' reminds us that the results talked about are not going to happen right away. Investing money wisely may not pay off immediately, but in the long run, it's beneficial.