C1verb 5K

Linger

🇬🇧 UK //ˈlɪŋɡə// 🇺🇸 US //ˈlɪŋɡər//

Meaning of Linger

To stay in a place longer than necessary, often due to hesitation or fondness.

In simple words: To stay in a place longer than necessary.

Linger in a sentence

• She decided to linger at the café, enjoying her coffee.
• The smell of the flowers made him linger in the garden.
• He lingered near the door, reluctant to say goodbye.
• We often linger over dinner, sharing stories and laughter.
• Don't linger too long; we need to get going.
• The ghost seemed to linger in the old house, creating a spooky atmosphere.
• I could see he was going to linger after everyone else had left.

How to use Linger

Use 'linger' when someone stays too long, often in a sentimental or affectionate way. It can be negative in professional contexts.

Grammar pattern

linger + object + preposition

Memory hint

Think of 'linger' as 'longer'—you stay longer than you should.

Related words

Collocations with Linger

• linger for a moment
• linger over
• linger in the air
• linger on

Synonyms for Linger

• dawdle
• tarry
• loiter
• linger on
• snag

Opposites of Linger

• rush
• hurry
• leave

Common mistakes with Linger

• Confused with 'linger' as only positive; it can also imply annoyance.
• Using it without an object, e.g., 'linger' should be 'linger around'.
• Mispronouncing it as 'ling-ger'; correct is 'lin-ger'.

Frequently asked questions about Linger

What does Linger mean?

To stay in a place longer than necessary.

What is the definition of Linger?

To stay in a place longer than necessary, often due to hesitation or fondness.

How do you use Linger in a sentence?

She decided to linger at the café, enjoying her coffee.

Can you give another example of Linger?

The smell of the flowers made him linger in the garden.

What are synonyms for Linger?

Common alternatives include dawdle, tarry, loiter, linger on, snag.

What is the opposite of Linger?

Opposite meanings include rush, hurry, leave.

What words go with Linger?

It commonly pairs with linger for a moment, linger over, linger in the air, linger on.

What are common mistakes when using Linger?

Confused with 'linger' as only positive; it can also imply annoyance. Using it without an object, e.g., 'linger' should be 'linger around'. Mispronouncing it as 'ling-ger'; correct is 'lin-ger'.

How do you pronounce Linger?

US: //ˈlɪŋɡər//, UK: //ˈlɪŋɡə//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Linger?

Use 'linger' when someone stays too long, often in a sentimental or affectionate way. It can be negative in professional contexts.

What CEFR level is Linger?

"Linger" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.