has lain dormant

USAGE SUMMARY

"has lain dormant" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has been inactive or unused for a period of time. Example: The old factory has lain dormant for years, but it may soon be reopened for production.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Since then, the scaffolding has lain dormant.

The New York Times

It has lain dormant for about 20 years.

The Guardian

For centuries, extreme optimism in the wisdom of the crowds has lain dormant.

The Guardian

Like the law against NGOs, it has lain dormant for months.

The Guardian

Mr. Ortiz's claim in Brooklyn state court has lain dormant for three years.

The New York Times

The Sunni-Shia schism may have lasted for 14 centuries, but most of that time it has lain dormant.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

The building at the corner of North Street and Royal Avenue has lay dormant for more than a decade while the bank dithered on what to do with this one-time piece of valuable real estate.

The Guardian

I'm a theatre kid before anything else... the showman in me has lay dormant for too long now.

Vice

It's like their whole operation has been one giant snap that has lay dormant for years and years, just waiting for this one perfect moment when we could finally respond to repeated IMs of "Dude!

Vice

Eyjafjallajökull had lain dormant since 1821.

The Guardian

For years, the case had lain dormant.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "has lain dormant" to describe something that was once active but is currently inactive, with a potential for future revival or relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "has lain dormant" when you simply mean something is unused or forgotten. The phrase implies a prior state of activity and a possibility of future re-emergence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has lain dormant" functions as a stative verb phrase, indicating a state of inactivity or latency that has persisted over time. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing various entities, from political movements to business ventures, that were once active but are currently not. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "has lain dormant" is a versatile phrase used to describe something that has been inactive for a period, often with the implication of potential future activity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English writing. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase carries a neutral tone, making it suitable for various communication styles. When using this phrase, ensure you're accurately conveying the sense of prior activity and possible future re-emergence, as opposed to mere disuse or abandonment. Remember that "lain" is the correct past participle of "lie" in this context, not "lay". Alternatives like ""has remained inactive"" or ""has been in abeyance"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has remained inactive

Focuses on the lack of activity, without necessarily implying a potential for future revival.

has been in abeyance

Suggests a temporary suspension or postponement, often in a formal or legal context.

has been suspended

Implies a temporary halt, often due to a specific reason or event.

has been quiescent

Emphasizes a state of quietness or stillness, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

has been latent

Highlights the potential for future activity or development, even though currently inactive.

has been inoperative

Focuses on the lack of functionality or operation.

has been mothballed

Specifically refers to placing something in storage, often with the intention of future reuse.

has been shelved

Suggests that a project or idea has been put aside, possibly indefinitely.

has stagnated

Highlights the lack of progress or development, often in a negative context.

has been idle

Suggests a lack of purpose or activity, often implying wasted potential.

FAQs

How can I use "has lain dormant" in a sentence?

You can use "has lain dormant" to describe something that has been inactive for a period of time but could potentially become active again. For example, "The project "has lain dormant" for years, but new funding could revive it."

What are some alternatives to "has lain dormant"?

Alternatives include "has remained inactive", "has been in abeyance", or "has been latent", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "has lay dormant" instead of "has lain dormant"?

No, "has lain dormant" is the correct form. "Lain" is the past participle of the verb "lie", while "lay" is the past tense of the verb "lay". In this context, you need the past participle.

What's the difference between "has lain dormant" and "has been dormant"?

"Has lain dormant" emphasizes the act of reclining or being in a state of rest over a period, whereas "has been dormant" simply describes the state of being inactive. The subtle difference often depends on the intended emphasis in the sentence.