does not last for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not last for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the duration of something that is temporary or short-lived. Example: "The battery does not last for more than a few hours before needing a recharge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Sullen weariness does not last for long.

The Guardian

The families of Pingyao know all too well this old saying, "Wealth does not last for more than three generations".

The New York Times

WHISTLER, British Columbia — If the coaches who set the Olympic ski courses are indeed Picassos of the snow, their artwork does not last for long.

The New York Times - Sports

You know it does not last for ever but that half-hour, 40 minutes is crucial and we just weren't good enough to get through it".

The Guardian - Sport

Every Irish person who gets on that plane knows the feeling; some, like me, also know that it does not last for long.

The New Yorker

Although the body can gradually clear gonorrhea on its own, most people are easily reinfected, which suggests that whatever immune response occurs the first time does not last for long.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

I hope it doesn't last for long.

Independent

Even when there is work, it doesn't last for long. . . .

The New Yorker

"Because if nothing sells, no one complains – and it doesn't last for long.

The Guardian

"I enjoy being second fiddle," he said, "because it doesn't last for long".

The New York Times - Sports

A flood doesn't last for weeks here, as it does in some of those northern places.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the limited duration of something, ensure the context clearly defines what "long" means. For instance, "The effect of the medication "does not last for" long" is more effective if you specify, "The effect of the medication "does not last for" more than a few hours."

Common error

While grammatically sound, "does not last for" can sound slightly informal in very formal writing. In academic or professional documents, consider alternatives like "is not sustainable" or "is transient" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not last for" functions primarily as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that something has a limited duration or is temporary. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "does not last for" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that something is temporary or short-lived. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news, scientific articles, and general writing. While versatile, writers should consider more formal alternatives like "is transient" or "is not sustainable" in academic or professional contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the duration being referenced. While semantically valid, "does not last for long" might sound somewhat redundant. Top authoritative sources include The Guardian, The New York Times, and BBC, indicating its acceptance in reputable publications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is temporary

Directly states the transient nature of something.

is not long-lasting

Directly indicates a lack of extended duration.

is short-lived

Highlights the brief existence or duration of something.

is not permanent

Emphasizes the lack of permanence, focusing on the enduring quality.

is transient

Stresses the temporary and changing nature of something.

does not endure

Focuses on the inability to withstand or continue over time.

is fleeting

Conveys a sense of rapid disappearance or transience.

has a limited lifespan

Highlights that something's existence is constrained within specific boundaries.

is ephemeral

Indicates something lasting for a very short time. More formal.

is only for a while

Informal way to express something that's happening for a short period of time.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "does not last for" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is transient", "is ephemeral", or "is not sustainable", depending on the specific context.

What's a simple way to say "does not last for"?

You can use simpler alternatives such as "is temporary", "is short-lived", or "is not permanent" for clarity.

Is there a difference between "does not last for long" and "does not last long"?

While both phrases convey the same general meaning, "does not last long" is often considered more concise and natural. "Does not last for long" adds slight emphasis, but can sometimes sound redundant.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "does not last for"?

The phrase "does not last for" is suitable for describing the limited duration of various phenomena, such as the effects of medication, the lifespan of a product, or the period of time someone's mood or feelings endure.