continues to linger

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "continues to linger" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that remains present or persists over time, often in a metaphorical sense, such as feelings or memories. Example: "The scent of her perfume continues to linger in the air long after she has left the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

For Germany the hangover continues to linger.

The Guardian - Sport

Overall congressional approval continues to linger near record low levels.

The Guardian - Opinion

The mayor has indicated that he will repeat the process if the stench continues to linger.

The New York Times

I hope he continues to linger in the hearts of his characters.

The New York Times - Books

Nishimura warned that: Strong nervousness continues to linger in the financial markets regarding eurozone debt woes.

The Guardian - Business

Bridgegate continues to linger, and Christie's numbers back home are atrocious, but does Trump really care?

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Those concerns continue to linger.

The New York Times

The case will continue to linger throughout negotiations.

The Guardian - Tech

Yet, he added, career criminals continue to linger.

The New York Times

Indeed, the government's involvement in a broad swath of industries will continue to linger.

The New York Times

European sovereign debt fears, which boiled over this summer, continue to linger.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "continues to linger" to describe something that persists subtly or unexpectedly, especially when a more forceful or abrupt end might be anticipated. It adds a touch of nuance to the description.

Common error

While acceptable, avoid relying on "continues to linger" excessively in formal writing, as it can sometimes sound less direct than alternatives like "persists" or "remains". Opt for stronger verbs when conveying crucial information in a business or academic environment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "continues to linger" functions as a verbal phrase, where 'continues' acts as an auxiliary verb modifying 'to linger'. This combination describes an ongoing state or action that is prolonged or slow to disappear. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "continues to linger" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something that persists or remains present over time, often in a subtle or gradual way. Analysis by Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it suggests a prolonged presence rather than an abrupt ending. While versatile, it's best used when conveying a nuance of gradual fading or subtle persistence, and stronger verbs are preferred in formal environments. Related alternatives include "persists in remaining" and "lingers indefinitely", each offering slight variations in meaning. Ultimately, "continues to linger" provides a descriptive and nuanced way to depict ongoing states or actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lingers indefinitely

Stresses the lack of a definite end point or resolution.

persists in remaining

Emphasizes the act of remaining despite potential forces acting against it; slightly more formal.

remains in effect

Focuses on the ongoing validity or influence of something; suitable for abstract concepts or situations.

endures over time

Highlights the duration and resilience of something; often used for long-lasting effects or conditions.

remains stubbornly

Implies resistance to change or removal; often used for negative or unwanted situations.

persists relentlessly

Underscores the unwavering nature and intensity of something's presence.

carries on existing

Highlights the continuous existence or continuation of something.

sustains its presence

Focuses on the active maintenance or support of something's ongoing existence.

perseveres despite everything

Emphasizes overcoming obstacles and challenges to maintain existence.

has not disappeared

Simply states that something is still present; less nuanced than "continues to linger".

FAQs

How can I use "continues to linger" in a sentence?

You can use "continues to linger" to describe something that persists or remains present over time, often subtly. For example, "The scent of lavender "continues to linger" in the room" or "Doubt "continues to linger" despite the evidence."

What are some alternatives to "continues to linger"?

Alternatives to "continues to linger" include phrases like "remains present", "persists", "endures", or "remains in effect". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "continues to linger"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Continues" is a verb indicating ongoing action, and "to linger" is an infinitive phrase acting as an adverbial modifier, further describing the nature of the continuation.

What's the difference between "continues to linger" and "remains"?

"Remains" simply indicates a state of being in the same condition or place. "Continues to linger" implies a more gradual or subtle persistence, often with a sense of something fading or slowly disappearing while still remaining present. For example, a smell "continues to linger", but a building "remains" standing.