to continue for a particular period of time
Example:
- Each game lasts about an hour.
- How long does the play last?
- Nothing lasts forever.
- The meeting only lasted for a few minutes.
- The trial is expected to last until the end of the week.
Extra examples:
- The flight seemed to last forever.
- The war lasted for three years.
- The effort began in November and lasted through February.
- The storm could last quite a long time.
- a bruise that was sure to last for days
- The celebrations lasted well into the next week.
to continue to exist or to function well
Example:
- This weather won't last.
- Our product looks better and lasts longer.
- He's making a big effort now, and I hope it lasts.
- It was fun while it lasted.
- These shoes should last you till next year.
Extra examples:
- The kids are all very enthusiastic, but it won't last—it never does.
- The good weather couldn't last.
- This type of happiness rarely lasts.
- Happiness never lasts.
- I always thought his popularity was unlikely to last.
- Interest rates are at their lowest level for a decade. I suggest you enjoy it while it lasts.
- Make the most of this feeling while it lasts.
- This house was built to last.
- Your car will last longer if you look after it.
- Even when cut, the flowers last very well.
- With care, the vines will last indefinitely.
to survive something or manage to stay in the same situation, despite difficulties
Example:
- She won't last long in that job.
- Can you last out until I can get help?
- He was injured early on and didn't last the match.
- Doctors say that she probably won't last out the night (= she will probably die before the morning).
to be enough for somebody to use, especially for a particular period of time
Example:
- Will the coffee last out till next week?
- We’ve got enough food to last us (for) three days.
- She hoped they had enough firewood to last through the night.
- Get your free sample while supplies last!