was hovering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was hovering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is suspended in the air or to indicate a state of uncertainty or indecision. Example: "The drone was hovering above the park, capturing stunning aerial footage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ipswich was hovering near the relegation zone.

The New York Times - Sports

And inflation was hovering around 10%.

The Economist

Andy Warhol was hovering outside.

The New York Times - Style

Michael Namer, one of the developers, was hovering.

The New York Times

That's absolutely... " The waiter was hovering.

The New Yorker

The object was hovering or on legs.

The New York Times

A light mist was hovering over the ground.

The New Yorker

"It was hovering over me the whole time," she said.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, a security helicopter had descended and was hovering threateningly.

The New Yorker

He turned toward the captain, who was hovering beside me.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

You're hovering".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "was hovering" to vividly describe something staying in one place in the air, or figuratively, to indicate something lingering or remaining present.

Common error

Avoid using "was hovering" too frequently in abstract or metaphorical contexts where a more precise verb would be more impactful. For instance, instead of saying "doubt was hovering over the decision", consider a more direct verb like "doubt plagued the decision".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was hovering" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating a state of being or an action in progress in the past. It describes something maintaining a position in the air or remaining in a particular state or place, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was hovering" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe something remaining in a specific location, either literally in the air or figuratively in a lingering state. Ludwig's examples show its prevalence in News & Media, with a neutral register suitable for diverse communication. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. While highly useful, overuse in abstract contexts should be avoided for greater impact. Alternative phrases such as "was floating" or "was lingering" can provide nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was floating

Replaces the action of hovering with the more general action of floating, implying suspension in air or liquid.

was suspended

Emphasizes the state of being held up or prevented from falling or sinking.

was lingering

Focuses on the aspect of remaining in a place or state for longer than expected.

was remaining

Indicates a continuation of being in a particular place or state.

was loitering

Suggests a more aimless or possibly unwelcome presence in a location.

was looming

Implies a threatening or ominous presence, often used in a figurative sense.

was stationed

Implies a deliberate and fixed positioning in a particular place.

was wavering

Highlights a state of indecision or instability, often used in a metaphorical context.

was oscillating

Describes a movement back and forth, suggesting a lack of stability or direction.

was circumambulating

Describes a circular movement around a central point, typically in a cautious manner.

FAQs

How can I use "was hovering" in a sentence?

You can use "was hovering" to describe something staying in the air, as in "The helicopter was hovering over the city", or to describe something lingering, as in "The possibility of rain was hovering over the picnic".

What are some alternatives to "was hovering"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "was floating", "was lingering", or "was suspended".

Is it correct to say "was hovering over"?

Yes, it is correct to say "was hovering over". It indicates that something is positioned directly above something else, either literally or figuratively, for example "The drone was hovering over the field".

What is the difference between "was hovering" and "was floating"?

"Was hovering" suggests a more controlled and stationary position in the air, while "was floating" implies a more passive and drifting movement.