be short-lived

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be short-lived" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that does not last long or has a brief duration. Example: "The excitement surrounding the new product launch may be short-lived as competitors quickly enter the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

It could be short-lived.

Independent

But the victory could be short-lived.

The New York Times

But it will be short-lived.

The Economist

The satisfaction will be short-lived.

The New York Times - Sports

The phenomenon may, however, be short-lived.

The New York Times

But their joy may be short-lived.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

But the euphoria may be short lived.

The New York Times

Her celebrations would be short lived, though.

Independent

Zuma's survival may be short lived.

The Guardian

The joy would be short lived, though.

BBC

Hirsch's insomnia may be short lived.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be short-lived", ensure the context clearly establishes what is temporary. This avoids ambiguity and reinforces the transient nature you intend to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "be short-lived" when referring to long-term trends that may experience minor setbacks. The phrase implies a complete cessation or significant reduction, not a temporary pause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be short-lived" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a subject as having a brief duration. It often follows a linking verb such as "is", "was", "will be", or "may be", as Ludwig's examples illustrate.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Wiki

5%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be short-lived" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe something that lasts only for a brief period. As indicated by Ludwig, it functions as a predicate adjective and is frequently found in news and media contexts. While "be short-lived" is versatile, it's essential to consider the scope of its application and avoid using it for minor setbacks in long-term trends. Alternatives like "be temporary" or "be transient" can offer nuanced ways to convey a similar meaning. By understanding its appropriate usage and context, you can effectively communicate the fleeting nature of various states and conditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not last long

A simpler and more direct way of expressing the same idea.

be temporary

Focuses on the non-permanent aspect, indicating something not intended to last.

be transient

Highlights the characteristic of passing through quickly without lasting.

be fleeting

Emphasizes the quick and elusive nature of something.

be impermanent

Highlights the lack of lasting quality, focusing on the mutable nature.

be ephemeral

Replaces the original phrase with a more literary term implying something fleeting and delicate.

be momentary

Indicates something lasting for only a moment.

have a brief duration

More descriptive, specifying the length of time as being short.

have a limited lifespan

Expresses that something's existence is constrained within a short period.

be fugacious

A more formal and less common synonym, meaning tending to disappear.

FAQs

How can I use "be short-lived" in a sentence?

Use "be short-lived" to describe something that exists or lasts for only a brief period. For example, "The initial excitement about the new policy might "be short-lived" if the implementation faces challenges".

What are some alternatives to "be short-lived"?

You can use phrases like "be temporary", "be transient", or "not last long" depending on the context. Each emphasizes the fleeting nature of something.

Is it correct to say "was short-lived"?

Yes, "was short-lived" is grammatically correct. It is the past tense form and indicates that something had a brief duration in the past. For example, "The alliance was short-lived, collapsing after only a few months".

What's the difference between "be short-lived" and "be fleeting"?

"Be short-lived" generally refers to the limited duration of something, while "be fleeting" emphasizes the quick and elusive nature of something. "Fleeting" often conveys a sense of something disappearing quickly and almost unnoticed.