lingering thoughts

USAGE SUMMARY

'lingering thoughts' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe thoughts that remain in one's mind, either in a positive or negative way. For example, "She had lingering thoughts about the way she handled the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It was a calculated show of force, designed to stifle any lingering thoughts of protest.

Independent

Viloria, who turns 21 Saturday, acknowledged yesterday that he still had lingering thoughts about the gold medal that got away.

The New York Times - Sports

The execution occurred just outside Machiavelli's office, and lingering thoughts of burned flesh may have accompanied him on his first days at work.

The New York Times - Books

This past week, during the annual press circus that descends on both teams playing in the game, Brady and Belichick have remained silent on the two questions that most interested reporters: Any lingering thoughts on the Deflategate scandal?

The New Yorker

At a commemoration here today of the 50th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, Glen Davis, a 71-year-old veteran from Paden, Okla., had lingering thoughts of the day the conflict started and how he, an Army medic stationed in Japan, found out about it.

The New York Times

It may have merely been an understandable inability to completely hide the natural disappointment that must be felt when something cherished is lost and there was certainly no animosity nor bitterness in the great Bubka's reaction: but look closely at his eyes in the video footage and it is possible to detect a sense of regret that betrays lingering thoughts of what might have been.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"It shatters any lingering thought that we can spot a terrorist based on appearance," he said.

The New York Times

The season lies ahead, no doubt to produce more questions than answers, but my lingering thought for today – exactly who was watching who?

The New York Times

ALONG with the pictures and souvenirs, many vacationers return home with a lingering thought: Wouldn't it be great to own a place there?

The New York Times

As the day drew to a close, I was left with one lingering thought as I headed to catch my train home.

The Guardian

It's not a program that will provoke much in the way of lingering thought, but it does provide the evanescent pleasure of, say, the banana split you indulge yourself with every year.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lingering thoughts" to convey the idea that certain thoughts are persistent and difficult to dismiss. This phrase adds depth to descriptions of mental states.

Common error

Avoid using "lingering thoughts" when you mean temporary or passing thoughts. "Lingering" implies a sense of persistence and duration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lingering thoughts" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It describes thoughts that persist or remain present in one's mind. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate to use this phrase in your writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lingering thoughts" effectively describes persistent mental impressions that remain present over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as in scientific discussions. When using this phrase, ensure that you are accurately conveying the sense of duration and persistence, distinguishing it from fleeting or temporary thoughts. Related phrases such as "persistent thoughts", "recurrent thoughts", and "residual thoughts" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persistent thoughts

Emphasizes the continuous and unwavering nature of the thoughts.

lingering concerns

Focuses on the worrisome aspect of thoughts that remain present.

lingering worries

Highlights the anxious nature of the continuing thoughts.

residual thoughts

Indicates thoughts that remain after something else has passed.

recurrent thoughts

Stresses the repetitive nature of the thoughts.

lingering memories

Shifts the focus to memories as the form of lingering mental content.

unresolved thoughts

Highlights that the thoughts remain unsettled or incomplete.

lingering doubts

Focuses on the uncertainty and skepticism within the thoughts.

lingering feelings

Shifts the focus from thoughts to emotions that persist.

haunting thoughts

Emphasizes the troubling and intrusive nature of the thoughts.

FAQs

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

You can use "lingering thoughts" to describe thoughts that continue to occupy someone's mind. For example, "Despite the success, she had "lingering thoughts" about what could have been done better".

What's a good substitute for "lingering thoughts"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "persistent thoughts", "residual thoughts", or "recurrent thoughts".

How does "lingering thoughts" differ from "fleeting thoughts"?

"Lingering thoughts" refers to thoughts that remain in your mind for an extended period, while "fleeting thoughts" are brief and quickly disappear.

Is it appropriate to use "lingering thoughts" in formal writing?

Yes, "lingering thoughts" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Its usage is widespread across various contexts, as evidenced by its presence in news articles and academic papers.