keeps lingering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keeps lingering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that continues to exist or remain in a place or situation longer than expected, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The scent of her perfume keeps lingering in the air long after she has left the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It was as if a single shimmering, subtly changing cosmic chord keeps lingering.

The New York Times - Arts

The camera keeps lingering tightly on the Vikings' skulls, as if hoping that they will solve the riddle.

The New York Times - Arts

No sale, no foul, but the experience keeps lingering in my mind.

Huffington Post

It's hard to watch Roberts confronting street thugs on screen when that hotel image keeps lingering in one's mind.

Los Angeles Times

How Does Lex Luthor Not Know Who Superman Is? Lex Luthor is said to be a brilliant young mind, and while I'm interested in seeing how Jesse Eisenberg portrays the character, one question keeps lingering in the back of my mind: How does Lex not know who Superman is?

Huffington Post

It keeps going, it keeps lingering, it pushes you down…" "[ 4] Fourthly, the women wondered whether the working environment would really understand their situation after returning.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

They will probably need a whole generation, and the memories will keep lingering".

The New Yorker

As the Brazilian national anthem floated around the Stade de France, the camera kept lingering on one man.

The Guardian - Sport

"In fact, the initial rebound is coming increasingly more consensual, but double-dip fears keep lingering".

Forbes

They seem to be the little pieces of things that just keep lingering around and withstand my attempts to demystify them. .

Vice

"The humidity might keep odors lingering in the air for some time," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keeps lingering" to describe intangible things like feelings, memories, or doubts that persist longer than expected. For example, "The doubt about the decision keeps lingering in her mind."

Common error

Avoid using "keeps lingering" to describe physical objects that simply remain in place. It's more appropriate for abstract concepts or sensations that persist in one's mind or environment.

Linguistic Context

Keeps lingering functions as a verb phrase, indicating the continuation of an action or state. It describes the persistence of something, whether it be a feeling, idea, or presence. This can be seen in the Ludwig examples where memories, doubts, or scents "keeps lingering".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keeps lingering" is a grammatically sound and useful expression in English, typically employed to describe the persistence of something—an emotion, a memory, or even an atmosphere—that remains present longer than expected. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides examples of its use in diverse contexts such as News & Media and Science. While not exceptionally common, it finds its place in describing situations where a sense of duration and perhaps unwanted continuation is conveyed. When writing, remember that "keeps lingering" is best suited for intangible concepts and is less fitting for describing static physical objects. When a more neutral alternative is required, consider using "stays present" or "remains".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persistently remains

Emphasizes the continuous and unwavering nature of remaining.

continues to hover

Suggests a sense of suspension or indecision while remaining present.

stays present

Highlights the ongoing presence without necessarily implying a negative connotation.

remains in place

Indicates a static continuation of being in a specific location or state.

endures continuously

Stresses the lasting and resilient nature of the lingering effect.

prolongs its stay

Implies an intentional or extended duration of remaining.

protracts its presence

Focuses on the act of lengthening or extending the period of being present.

unremittingly stays

Emphasizes the consistent and non-stopping staying.

continually abides

Suggests a sense of adherence and continuation over time.

incessantly recurs

Highlights the repetitive nature of the lingering effect.

FAQs

How can I use "keeps lingering" in a sentence?

Use "keeps lingering" to describe something that persists or remains present, often in a metaphorical or emotional sense. For example: "The memory of that day "keeps lingering" in my thoughts."

What are some alternatives to saying "keeps lingering"?

You can use alternatives like "persistently remains", "continues to hover", or "stays present" depending on the specific context.

Is "keeps lingering" grammatically correct?

Yes, "keeps lingering" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe something that continues to exist or remain present.

What is the difference between ""keeps lingering"" and "remains"?

"Keeps lingering" implies a more persistent or unwanted presence compared to "remains", which is a more neutral term for staying in a place or state.