Time-consuming is an adjective used to describe a task that takes a LONG time and is done at a SLOW pace. The crossword solutions for this term are 'LONG' and 'SLOW', both of which have four letters. LONG is used to describe something that has a great length or duration, while SLOW is used to describe something that moves or happens at a low speed. Together, these two words accurately describe the meaning of time-consuming.