For Some Years
For Years
suffix
When you have years coming and going, you know it is for some years. Don't confuse this one with 来年 which means "next year." The kanji 来 comes after the kanji for year, so instead of "coming year" it's "years that come (and go)." At least, you can think of it that way to differentiate.
You can also add numbers to this word. For example ５年来 means something to the tune of "for five years." But this is a pretty formal word. Just keep that in mind.
ねんらい
This is a jukugo word, which usually means on'yomi readings from the kanji. If you know the readings of your kanji you'll know how to read this as well.
かれは、わたしの三十年来の友人です。
He’s been my friend for thirty years.
わたしの年来のきぼうがついにかないました。
My long-cherished wish has finally come true.
数年来彼女をデートに誘っているんだが、いつも「髪の毛を洗うのに忙しいから」と断られる。
I’ve been trying to ask her out for a few years now, but she always says she will be busy washing her hair.