Reading Theme:
Linger: Definition, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：stay longer (linger)
linger
/ˈlɪŋɡər/
vi.
To stay in a place for a longer time than usual, often because you don't want to leave or are hesitating.
stay longer
➕
/steɪ ˈlɒŋɡər/
vi.
To remain in a place for an extended period, often due to reluctance or hesitation to leave.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Middle English 'lengeren', related to 'long', meaning to prolong or delay.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'linger' sounds like 'longer', reminding you of extended stay or persistence.
📖 Example
Even after the park officially closed, a few couples continued to linger on the benches, enjoying the quiet evening.
Even after the park closed, some couples stayed on the benches, enjoying the evening.
🔗 Collocations
linger on – to stay or persist for a long time
linger over – to take one's time with something
linger in the air – to remain perceptible, as a smell or sound
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
lingering (adj.) – lasting for a long time
📖 Cultural Story
Derives from Old English 'lengan', to prolong. Modern usage often describes persistent emotions or memories, common in literary contexts.
Meaning 2：persist over time (linger)
linger
/ˈlɪŋɡər/
vi.
To take a long time to disappear or die away. Often used for feelings, smells, or memories.
persist over time
➕
/pərˈsɪst ˈoʊvər taɪm/
vi.
To continue to exist or be noticeable for a prolonged period, often referring to sensations, emotions, or memories.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The smell of freshly baked bread lingered in the kitchen all morning.
The aroma of freshly baked bread remained in the kitchen throughout the morning.
🔗 Collocations
linger in the memory – to be remembered for a long time
linger on the palate – to have a lasting taste
a lingering feeling – an emotion that persists
🔄 Synonyms
🌱 Derivatives
lingeringly (adv.) – in a way that lasts for a long time
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