- Remains
- Meaning: “Remains” implies that something or someone stays in a particular place, state, or condition. It often suggests a sense of persistence over time. For example, the remains of an ancient civilization can be found in archaeological sites. These ruins remain long after the civilization has declined, preserving elements of its architecture, artifacts, and way of life. In a more everyday context, a bad smell might remain in a room even after the source has been removed. It persists in the air, continuing to be present and noticeable. When we talk about a person, we might say that a feeling of sadness remains with them after the loss of a loved one. This emotion stays with the individual, not easily fading away.
- Usage similarity to “Lingers”: Both “remains” and “lingers” convey the idea of something staying. However, “lingers” often has a more transient or gradual connotation. It can suggest a slow departure or a reluctant leaving. For instance, a mist might linger in a valley, slowly dissipating over time. It gives the impression of a somewhat lazy or drawn - out presence. “Remains,” on the other hand, is more about the state of still being there. It can be used to describe a more static or long - term presence. For example, a historical monument remains in a city square, serving as a permanent reminder of the city's past. But in some cases, they can be used interchangeably. For example, “The memory of that day remains/lingers in my mind,” both phrases convey the idea that the memory continues to be present in the speaker's thoughts.
- Persists
- Meaning: “Persists” indicates that something continues to exist, occur, or be done despite obstacles, opposition, or the passage of time. It often implies a certain tenacity. In a medical context, a disease symptom might persist even after treatment. For example, a cough might persist in a patient, suggesting that the underlying cause has not been fully addressed. In a social context, a problem like poverty can persist in a community over generations. Despite efforts to alleviate it, various factors such as lack of education, economic disparities, and social structures keep the problem in existence. When it comes to a person's actions, someone might persist in their efforts to learn a new language, continuing to study and practice even when faced with difficulties.
- Usage similarity to “Lingers”: “Persists” and “lingers” both involve the idea of continued existence. “Lingers” is often more about a physical or emotional presence that seems to stay around without a strong sense of active resistance. For example, a beautiful melody might linger in your head, simply remaining there without any effort on your part. “Persists,” however, often implies that there is some form of resistance or effort involved in the continued existence. For instance, a stubborn stain persists on a fabric despite repeated attempts to clean it. It is not just staying but actively resisting removal. But in some cases, the line can be blurred. For example, a feeling of unease can either linger or persist, depending on whether you want to emphasize the passive presence (linger) or the sense that it's not going away easily (persist).
- Hover
- Meaning: “Hover” originally refers to an object or a creature staying in the air in one place, often by flapping wings (for birds or insects) or using some form of propulsion (like a helicopter). Metaphorically, it means to remain in the vicinity of something or to be indecisively around a particular situation or state. For example, a hummingbird hovers near a flower, staying in close proximity as it feeds on the nectar. In a more abstract sense, a sense of doubt might hover over a decision. This means that the doubt is present, constantly in the background, influencing the decision - making process. A person might also hover around a conversation, not fully participating but staying close enough to hear what's being said, perhaps waiting for an opportunity to join in.
- Usage similarity to “Lingers”: Both “hover” and “lingers” convey a sense of remaining in a particular area or state. “Lingers” is a more general term for staying, while “hover” often implies a more restless or indecisive form of staying. It gives the impression of being in a state of limbo or being on the periphery. For example, a customer might linger in a store, looking around without a clear purpose. Similarly, they might hover around different product displays, not yet committed to making a purchase. “Hover” can also add a sense of being in a state of anticipation or waiting, which is not always as prominent in the use of “lingers”. For example, a storm cloud might hover over a town, creating a sense of impending danger and anticipation.
Synonym for lingers,synonyms of lingers
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