Lasting: Definition and Synonyms
lasting – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “lasting” is primarily used as an adjective, though it can also function as a noun or form part of verb phrases like “to last.” As an adjective, lasting describes something that endures for a long period of time. It conveys the idea of continuity and permanence.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enduring | Emphasizes resilience over time | “The enduring legacy of the monument is still felt today.” | Formal/Informal, Academic |
| Permanent | Implies permanence and often an unchangeable state | “A permanent solution to the problem was not easy to find.” | Business/Formal |
| Long-lasting | Highlights extended duration | “The batteries have a long-lasting charge.” | Casual/Business |
| Persistent | Suggests ongoing presence | “Her persistent memory of the event never faded.” | Formal/Informal, Academic |
Usage Notes
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Enduring: Suitable for both formal and informal contexts, particularly where there is an emphasis on something maintaining its quality or presence over time. It can be used in academic writing to describe phenomena that remain unchanged.
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Permanent: Often found in business or legal contexts, indicating that something is intended never to change. This term suits discussions around policies, decisions, or solutions.
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Long-lasting: A common choice for everyday conversation and marketing, where the focus is on durability or prolonged effectiveness of a product or experience.
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Persistent: While often used in formal writing to describe memories or phenomena that continue over time, it can also carry a slightly negative connotation when referring to issues or problems that are hard to resolve.
Common Pitfalls
One common confusion arises with the word “enduring,” which some might use interchangeably with “permanent.” However, while both suggest longevity, permanent often carries an implication of being unchangeable and forever, whereas enduring focuses on resilience and lasting power without necessarily implying immutability. Additionally, it’s important to distinguish between the adjective “lasting” and its verb form “last,” as they serve different grammatical purposes.
Final Recap
In summary, while “lasting” can be synonymous with words like enduring, permanent, long-lasting, and persistent, each synonym carries subtle differences in meaning and usage. By understanding these nuances, you can choose the most appropriate word for your context, whether it’s writing a business report, crafting an academic paper, or engaging in casual conversation.
Encourage yourself to practice using these words in various contexts to expand your vocabulary. Try creating sentences or even short stories with each synonym to see how they fit into different scenarios. This will help reinforce your understanding and ensure you can select the most fitting term as needed.