lingers on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lingers on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that continues to exist or persist in a particular state or feeling, often after the main event has passed. Example: "The memory of that day lingers on, reminding me of the joy we shared."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mystery lingers on.

The New Yorker

A bitterness lingers on.

The Guardian - Opinion

But she lingers on.

The Guardian - Film

Meanwhile, the dispute over gays lingers on.

The Economist

Davis lingers on such gossip.

The New York Times

He lingers on grey skies.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The cold lingers on into March.

The New Yorker

His cologne lingers on my jacket.

The Economist

But Horwitz lingers on a different action.

The New York Times - Books

For good or ill, it lingers on.

The Economist

It lingers on the tongue.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lingers on" to describe something that remains noticeable or influential after the main event has concluded. It's effective for conveying a sense of something's continued presence or impact.

Common error

Avoid using "lingers on" when describing fleeting or very short-lived occurrences. The phrase implies a degree of persistence that wouldn't be appropriate for momentary actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lingers on" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the continuation or persistence of something. It suggests that something remains present or noticeable, often beyond an expected duration. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "lingers on" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe the continuation or persistence of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, particularly within news and media. While alternatives like "remains" or "persists" exist, "lingers on" carries a nuanced connotation of something subtly yet noticeably remaining present. To use the phrase effectively, ensure that the context involves a degree of persistence or lasting impact, avoiding its application to fleeting moments. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and suitable registers, writers can confidently and accurately incorporate "lingers on" into their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continues

Simply indicates an ongoing action or state without specific emotional coloring. It's a straightforward alternative.

remains

Focuses on a state of being unchanged or continuing in the same condition. It's a more neutral and general alternative.

carries on

Implies continuing despite difficulties or setbacks. More conversational.

persists

Emphasizes continued existence despite obstacles or challenges. It's a more formal alternative.

endures

Highlights the ability to withstand hardship and last for a long time. It conveys a sense of resilience.

stays with

Focuses on the lasting impact or influence of something on someone or something else.

prevails

Suggests eventual success or dominance after a period of struggle. It has a more positive connotation.

sticks around

An informal way to say something remains present, often unexpectedly.

is sustained

Highlights the maintenance or support of something over time, often implying external effort.

haunts

Implies a persistent and often unwelcome presence, particularly of memories or emotions.

FAQs

How can I use "lingers on" in a sentence?

You can use "lingers on" to describe a feeling, smell, or memory that continues to be present. For instance, "The scent of her perfume lingers on in the room" or "The memory of that day lingers on in my mind".

What can I say instead of "lingers on"?

You can use alternatives like "remains", "persists", or "continues" depending on the specific context you're aiming for.

Is it correct to say "linger on" or "lingers on"?

"Linger on" is the base form of the verb and is used with plural subjects or in the infinitive form. "Lingers on" is the third-person singular present tense form and is used with singular subjects like "it", "he", or "she".

What's the difference between "dwells on" and "lingers on"?

"Lingers on" typically refers to something that remains present or noticeable, while "dwells on" implies focusing or thinking about something repeatedly and at length.