has lain heavy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has lain heavy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of burden or weight that something has caused over time. Example: "The guilt of his actions has lain heavy on his conscience for years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

After 27 years, the courts agreed that the burden of guilt that has lain heavy on 96 graves can finally be lifted.

The Guardian - Opinion

These assurances, coupled with a stronger social safety net and employment provisions (see article), may help lift some of the deflationary fog that has lain heavy over Japan for so long.Bureaucrats and the budgetBut all this depends on Mr Hatoyama's first task: redesigning government.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

After she has lain still, and Ms. Baewert has placed heavy rocks on her belly, pelvis, face.

The New York Times - Arts

It has heavy swearing, heavy breathing and heavy gunplay.

The New York Times

Betting has been heavy.

The Economist

The toll has been heavy.

The New York Times

Cairo has felt heavy.

The Guardian - Books

The fight has been heavy with symbols.

The New York Times

Mr Morsi has a heavy responsibility.

The Economist

Yet foot traffic has been heavy.

The New York Times - Arts

But the maker has some heavy competition.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has lain heavy", ensure the subject causing the burden is clearly identified. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "has lain heavy" in purely literal contexts. This phrase is most effective when describing emotional, psychological, or metaphorical burdens rather than physical weight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has lain heavy" functions as a verb phrase that describes a continuing state or condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly conveys a feeling of burden or weight that has persisted over time. The examples provided showcase its use in describing emotional or psychological burdens.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has lain heavy" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe a persistent burden or feeling of weight, particularly in emotional or psychological contexts. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for describing a feeling of burden or weight that something has caused over time. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it conveys a neutral to slightly elevated tone. When using this phrase, ensure the subject and nature of the burden are clear to maintain effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has weighed heavily

Replaces 'lain' with 'weighed', emphasizing the ongoing pressure and impact.

has been a heavy burden

Uses 'burden' explicitly, highlighting the oppressive nature of the situation.

has pressed down hard

Focuses on the force and intensity of the pressure exerted.

has cast a long shadow

Emphasizes the lasting and pervasive influence of the event or situation.

has been a constant weight

Highlights the continuous and unyielding nature of the burden.

has been a great strain

Focuses on the exhausting and demanding nature of the situation.

has taken its toll

Emphasizes the negative consequences and damage caused over time.

has been a persistent pressure

Highlights the ongoing and unrelenting nature of the force.

has had a profound impact

Focuses on the significant and far-reaching effects of the event or situation.

has left a lasting mark

Emphasizes the enduring and indelible impression created.

FAQs

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

You can use "has lain heavy" to describe a burden or feeling that has persisted over time. For example, "The guilt of his actions "has lain heavy" on his conscience for years."

What are some alternatives to "has lain heavy"?

Alternatives include "has weighed heavily", "has been a heavy burden", or "has taken its toll", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "has lain heavy" grammatically correct?

Yes, "has lain heavy" is grammatically correct and follows standard English grammar rules. It's a valid way to describe something that has been a persistent burden.

What is the difference between "has lain heavy" and "has weighed heavily"?

While both phrases are similar, "has lain heavy" often implies a more passive or enduring presence, whereas "has weighed heavily" suggests a more active or forceful impact. The choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.