do not linger

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not linger" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to advise someone not to stay in a place or situation longer than necessary. Example: "As the event is about to start, please do not linger in the hallway."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

5. Look, but do not linger.

The New York Times

Please do not linger here after you express yourself.

The New Yorker

Do not linger to see who else is hanging around.

Harvard Business Review

Signs warn, with good reason, "Do Not Linger".

The Guardian - Travel

Many yoga classes in New York do not linger on the Sanskrit chants and texts.

The New York Times

Passengers do not linger long: 15 minutes or so before boarding.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

But don't linger.

The New York Times - Travel

You don't linger on about it.

The New Yorker

But the songs don't linger.

The New York Times

Don't linger" for example.

The Guardian - Books

Don't linger too long.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "do not linger" in instructional contexts, clearly specify the reasons for avoiding lingering to ensure understanding and compliance.

Common error

Avoid using "do not linger" in overly casual conversations. While grammatically sound, it can sound stilted or overly formal in informal settings. Simpler alternatives like "don't hang around" or "don't stay" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not linger" primarily functions as an imperative, giving a command or instruction. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct. Examples showcase it being used in warning signs, instructions, and general advice against staying in a place or situation for an extended time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "do not linger" serves as a grammatically sound and versatile instruction across varied contexts. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is perfectly acceptable. Predominantly utilized to advise against remaining in a specific location or situation for an extended period, its effectiveness stems from its neutrality. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the underlying reasons for this directive. While suitable for formal writing, opt for simpler alternatives like "don't stay" in casual conversations. Related phrases include "do not remain", "do not tarry", and "move on quickly".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do not stay

A simpler and more direct way of saying "do not linger".

do not remain

A more formal way of expressing the idea of not staying.

do not tarry

A slightly archaic and formal way of saying "do not linger".

don't delay

Emphasizes promptness and avoiding delays, slightly different focus than lingering.

don't stick around

An informal way to suggest someone leave a place.

do not dawdle

Highlights slowness and wasting time, slightly more informal.

move on quickly

Highlights the importance of transitioning rapidly, rather than simply not lingering.

make haste

Emphasizes speed and urgency, implying a need to leave quickly.

do not dwell

Focuses on not dwelling mentally or emotionally on something, diverging from the physical sense of lingering.

be brief

Emphasizes conciseness and avoiding unnecessary prolongation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "do not linger" to sound more casual?

Consider using phrases like "don't stick around", "don't hang around", or simply "don't stay" in informal contexts.

Is "do not linger" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "do not linger" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a clear and direct instruction, especially in notices or official guidelines.

What is the difference between "do not linger" and "do not dwell"?

"Do not linger" typically refers to physical presence, advising against staying in a place. "Do not dwell" refers to mental or emotional states, advising against focusing too much on something.

What are some synonyms for "do not linger" that maintain a similar level of formality?

Synonyms that maintain formality include "do not remain", "do not tarry", or "move on quickly".