What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lag
Example
The team is lagging behind in the competition. [lagging: present participle]
Example
The internet connection is lagging, causing delays in our work. [lagging: verb]
linger
Example
She lingered at the party, not wanting to leave. [lingered: past tense]
Example
The scent of the flowers lingered in the air. [lingered: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lag is more commonly used than linger in everyday language, especially in technical or competitive contexts. Linger is less common but can be used to describe a more leisurely or enjoyable pace.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lag and linger?
Both lag and linger are relatively informal words, but lag may be slightly more formal due to its technical usage in certain contexts.
