lingering odor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lingering odor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a smell that remains in a place for a period of time after the source has been removed or has dissipated. Example: "After the party, there was a lingering odor of smoke that filled the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

the faint lingering odor of hypocrisy.

The New Yorker

There's a lingering odor of master's thesis.

The New York Times - Arts

It's the unwanted houseguest that just won't leave: the stale, lingering odor of tobacco smoke.

The Washington Post

Putting aside any lingering odor from Olympic committee scandal, the Games pose a giant iffiness factor.

The New York Times

It remains to be seen whether airing Senator Williams' accomplishments will dispel the lingering odor of Abscam.

The New York Times

Yes, a cook will slip a pair on every now and then, especially when he's handling something with a lingering odor, like salmon.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

He promised that the tower's walls would be sandblasted to remove any lingering odors.

The New York Times

*"If there are lingering odors, bake bread, boil cinnamon or buy some strong-smelling flowers".

The New York Times

Sometimes it's not stains that take you to the dry cleaner, but unpleasant, lingering odors from perspiration, smoke or perfume.

The New York Times

The drugs may have been exceptionally well hidden, they say, or there may have been lingering odors from drugs no longer present.

The New York Times

In order to satisfy those travelers (and others who do actually have allergies or asthma), Hyatt said it uses a six-step cleaning process to sanitize its special rooms that includes disseminating tea tree oil, a natural disinfectant, through the ventilation system, and using a blast of ozone to get rid of lingering odors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "lingering odor", be specific about its source and quality. Instead of just saying "a lingering odor", try "a lingering odor of smoke" or "a lingering odor of burnt coffee".

Common error

Avoid using "lingering odor" without providing context or details about the odor itself. This can leave the reader confused or create a weak image. Be descriptive about the smell and its origin.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lingering odor" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "lingering" modifies the noun "odor". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in diverse English sources. It helps describe a smell that persists.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

27%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lingering odor" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe a smell that persists after its source is gone. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While often used in neutral contexts, particularly in News & Media, it's important to be descriptive about the odor's source to provide a clear picture. Alternatives like "persistent smell" or "remaining scent" can be used depending on the context. Remember to avoid vagueness and clearly specify the odor to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persistent smell

Focuses on the enduring quality of the smell.

remaining scent

Highlights the fact that the scent is still present.

residual aroma

A more formal way to describe a remaining pleasant smell.

faint trace of odor

Emphasizes the weakness or subtlety of the smell.

stubborn scent

Highlights the difficulty in removing the smell.

unfading smell

Emphasizes the lasting nature of the smell.

last vestige of scent

Indicates the final small amount of a smell remaining.

tenacious odor

Highlights the strong and persistent nature of the smell.

impersistent reek

Describes a foul, lingering odor.

abiding fragrance

A more elegant and positive way to describe a lingering pleasant smell.

FAQs

How can I describe a "lingering odor" more vividly?

To enhance your description of a "lingering odor", consider specifying its source (e.g., "lingering odor of smoke") and using descriptive adjectives to convey its quality (e.g., pungent, faint, acrid). You might consider using "persistent smell" or "remaining scent".

What's the difference between "lingering odor" and "lingering scent"?

"Odor" generally refers to any smell, which can be either pleasant or unpleasant. "Scent" typically implies a pleasant or fragrant smell. Therefore, use "lingering scent" for positive smells and "lingering odor" for neutral or negative smells.

How to get rid of a "lingering odor"?

To eliminate a "lingering odor", identify its source, ventilate the area, use odor absorbers like baking soda, or try specialized cleaning products designed to neutralize specific smells. Addressing the source is key.

What are some formal alternatives to "lingering odor"?

For a more formal tone, you could use alternatives such as "residual aroma" or "persistent smell". These options maintain a professional tone while conveying the same meaning.