"dwell on the past" vs "dwell in the past"

Question

"dwell on the past" vs "dwell in the past"

Both 'dwell on the past' and 'dwell in the past' are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Dwell on the past' is more commonly used and means to focus or think a lot about past events. On the other hand, 'dwell in the past' is less common and implies being stuck or living in the past.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

This phrase means to focus or think a lot about past events or situations.

Examples:

She tends to dwell on the past and find it hard to move on.
Instead of dwelling on the past, try to focus on the present.
Don't dwell too much on the past; look towards the future.
It's not healthy to constantly dwell on the past.
He can't stop dwelling on the past mistakes he made.

Alternatives:

fixate on the past
obsess over the past
ruminate on the past
reflect on the past
ponder the past

This phrase implies being stuck or living in the past, rather than just thinking about it.

Examples:

She seems to dwell in the past, unable to move forward.
Some people prefer to dwell in the past rather than face the present.
He's always dwelling in the past, never looking towards the future.
Living in the past can prevent you from enjoying the present.
It's not healthy to dwell in the past for too long.

Alternatives:

live in the past
be stuck in the past
remain in the past
reside in the past
linger in the past

Answer 1

dwell on the past

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

dwell in the past

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English.

"dwell on the past" vs "dwell in the past"

dwell on the past

dwell in the past

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