linger for a while

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "linger for a while" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the act of staying in a place or situation for an extended period, often implying a sense of enjoyment or reluctance to leave. Example: "After the meeting, I decided to linger for a while in the café to enjoy my coffee and reflect on the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Blunk took a sip of coffee and let the question linger for a while.

The New York Times - Magazine

On my way out, I linger for a while by the rail of dresses, thinking.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As a new generation of "Lebowski" fans emerges, Dude Studies may linger for a while.

The New York Times - Books

Then, even when the food was largely gone, the bacteria would linger for a while in abundance.

The New York Times

Burgess may have gone but the ill feeling generated by his premature exit will linger for a while.

The Guardian - Sport

But like the sort of guest who is the nightmare of every host, Silvio Berlusconi still looks ready to linger for a while on the doorstep.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

They lingered for a while in a remote spot, waiting for activity.

The New York Times

The tiger lingered for a while, his face in profile as cameras whirred behind me.

The Guardian - Travel

Some customers lingered for a while, picking up and putting down titles as if fondling fruit at a grocery store.

The New Yorker

"It's been lingering for a while, and he's been quiet about it and dealing with it," Casey said.

The New York Times - Sports

On the way he took a severe turn for the worse, lingered for a while, and died in the holy month of Ramadan.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "linger for a while" to suggest a pleasant or reluctant delay, such as when someone is enjoying a moment and doesn't want it to end, or when something, like an illness, persists longer than desired.

Common error

Avoid using "linger for a while" when a simple statement of duration is needed. The phrase carries an implication of either reluctance to leave or something persisting, so ensure that connotation fits the context. If you just want to communicate duration, choose "stay", or "last", depending on your desired meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "linger for a while" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the act of prolonging one's stay or presence in a place or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is common and grammatically sound. The examples show its use across various contexts, adding nuance to the simple act of staying.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

8%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "linger for a while" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrasal verb that describes prolonging one's stay or presence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It's suitable for neutral contexts, as it often implies a sense of reluctance to leave or an enjoyment of the moment. While predominantly found in news and media sources, its versatility extends to wiki and informal contexts. Remember to consider the connotation of reluctance or enjoyment when using this phrase, and ensure it fits your intended meaning. Alternatives like "stay a bit longer" or "hang around for a bit" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extend the stay

Similar to prolong the visit, but focused on staying.

stay a bit longer

Focuses on extending a stay in a particular place.

stick around

Informal way of saying to stay in a place.

hang around for a bit

Suggests a casual and informal extension of time spent.

wait a short while

Emphasizes the act of waiting for a limited time.

tarry a while

Implies a deliberate pause or delay, often for pleasure.

delay departure

Specifically refers to postponing leaving a location.

dawdle for some time

Highlights slow and leisurely movement or activity.

prolong the visit

Highlights extending a visit or stay.

remain for a period

Formally indicates staying in a place or state for a specified duration.

FAQs

How can I use "linger for a while" in a sentence?

You can use "linger for a while" to describe staying in a place or situation longer than expected, often implying enjoyment or reluctance to leave. For example, "After the concert, we decided to "linger for a while" to soak in the atmosphere."

What can I say instead of "linger for a while"?

You can use alternatives like "stay a bit longer", "hang around for a bit", or "tarry a while" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "lingered for a while"?

Yes, "lingered for a while" is the past tense form and is grammatically correct. For example, "The smell of smoke "lingered for a while" after the fire."

What is the difference between "linger" and "linger for a while"?

"Linger" means to stay longer than necessary or expected, while ""linger for a while"" emphasizes the duration of the lingering. The latter provides more emphasis on the time spent.