linger longer

USAGE SUMMARY

"linger longer" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that means to spend more time doing something, either out of enjoyment or necessity. For example, "We wanted to linger longer at the beach, but the sun was setting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Stumbling heroes linger longer.

The New York Times - Books

Failures linger longer.

The New York Times - Sports

Some linger longer than that.

The New York Times - Sports

Some expect the effects of the storm to linger longer.

The New York Times

You can complete it in three hours, or linger longer.

Independent

This year, though, voters may linger longer than usual.

The New York Times

But linger longer and Delorme's images take on a different dimension.

Independent

Can new technologies, however, pinpoint "domesticated" phages that can linger longer in the body?

The New York Times - Magazine

That pain will certainly linger longer than the marks on Murrell's arm.

The Guardian - Sport

But there are also images that could linger longer than what could be a short series.

The New York Times - Sports

He is wary of materials that linger longer in the body and fail to age with what nature provided.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "linger longer" to suggest a pleasant or desired extension of time in a specific context. It implies a voluntary choice to remain.

Common error

Avoid using "linger longer" when the extension of time is involuntary or negative. The phrase typically carries a positive or neutral connotation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "linger longer" functions as a comparative verb phrase, indicating a desire or tendency to spend more time in a particular place or activity. As Ludwig highlights, it is widely used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "linger longer" is a common and grammatically correct way to express the idea of extending time spent in a specific place or state. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, from news and media to science and business. While primarily neutral in tone, it often carries a connotation of enjoyment or voluntary extension. When choosing alternatives, consider the formality of the context, opting for phrases like "remain for a greater period" in more formal settings. Remember, "linger longer" is most effective when the extension of time is intended and welcomed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spend more time

This simplifies the phrase, focusing on the act of allocating time.

stay for a longer duration

This alternative uses more formal vocabulary to convey the same meaning.

extend one's stay

This version suggests a deliberate lengthening of a visit or presence.

remain for a greater period

This option emphasizes the continuation of presence over a specified time.

prolong the visit

This emphasizes the action of making the visit longer.

hang around longer

An informal way of expressing the same idea, suggesting a casual extension of time.

tarry longer

This uses a less common, somewhat archaic word to indicate a longer stay.

delay departure

This highlights the postponement of leaving.

stretch the sojourn

Uses more formal language to convey extending a temporary stay.

draw out the time

Focuses on stretching the perceived duration.

FAQs

How can I use "linger longer" in a sentence?

You can use "linger longer" to describe spending more time in a place or with an activity. For example, "We decided to "linger longer" at the cafe because the atmosphere was so inviting."

What are some alternatives to "linger longer"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "spend more time", "extend one's stay", or "remain longer".

Is it appropriate to use "linger longer" in formal writing?

While "linger longer" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "remain for a greater period" might be more suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What does "linger longer" imply?

The phrase "linger longer" suggests a voluntary and often pleasurable extension of time, contrasting with a forced or unpleasant delay.