doesn't last long

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doesn't last long" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is fleeting or of short duration. For example: "The summer heat doesn't last long in this part of the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The deluge doesn't last long.

The New York Times

"But that doesn't last long.

The Guardian - Film

But that brooding doesn't last long.

The Guardian - Travel

The serenity doesn't last long.

The Guardian

The facade doesn't last long.

The Guardian - Opinion

This state doesn't last long.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

They don't last, because they work one gimmick — their sex appeal — and that doesn't last long.

The New Yorker

That identity doesn't last long.

Independent

However, this equilibrium doesn't last long.

Independent

The chase doesn't last long.

The New York Times

But it doesn't last long.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing experiences or sensations, use "doesn't last long" to effectively convey their fleeting nature. For example: "The initial excitement of winning the lottery doesn't last long once taxes and family requests are factored in."

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid overusing "doesn't last long" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "is short-lived" or "is transient" /s/is+transient to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doesn't last long" functions as a predicate within a sentence. It expresses the duration or lack thereof regarding the subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "doesn't last long" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe something transient or of short duration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and commonality across varied sources, especially in news media and informal contexts. When writing, it's a good practice to use this phrase to effectively convey the fleeting nature of experiences or sensations. However, in highly formal or academic writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "is short-lived" or "is transient". The phrase serves to manage expectations and provide commentary on the temporary nature of things. Remember, while handy and commonly understood, it should be used mindfully to match the overall tone of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is short-lived

Emphasizes the brief existence or duration of something.

is fleeting

Highlights the quick and transient nature of something.

is temporary

Focuses on the non-permanent aspect of something.

is ephemeral

Stresses the very short lifespan and delicate nature of something.

is transient

Underscores the passing or changing nature of something.

is brief

Simply denotes the short duration of something.

is momentary

Highlights that something only occurs for a moment.

fades quickly

Emphasizes the rapid disappearance or decline of something.

doesn't endure

Focuses on the lack of staying power or resilience.

is not durable

Highlights the lack of robustness or lasting quality.

FAQs

What does "doesn't last long" mean?

The phrase "doesn't last long" means something is of short duration or fleeting. It indicates that a state, condition, or object is temporary and will not persist for an extended period.

How can I use "doesn't last long" in a sentence?

You can use "doesn't last long" to describe anything that is temporary. For example: "The battery life on this phone doesn't last long", or "The feeling of accomplishment after finishing a marathon doesn't last long as the muscle soreness kicks in".

What can I say instead of "doesn't last long"?

You can use alternatives like "is short-lived", "is fleeting", or "is temporary" depending on the specific context.

Is "doesn't last long" grammatically correct?

Yes, "doesn't last long" is grammatically correct and commonly used in everyday English. It follows standard subject-verb agreement and is widely understood.