The term 'lasting quite a while' can be expressed in three different ways using crossword solutions. The first is 'agelong', which is a seven letter word meaning lasting for an indefinite period of time. The second is 'LONG', which is a four letter word meaning having great duration or distance in space or time. The third is 'longterm', which is an eight letter word meaning continuing for a LONG period of time. All three words describe the same concept, that of something lasting for a significant amount of time.