Lingering on the horizon in my experience is used to convey optimism about future potential opportunities. It’s out of reach but just around the corner.
Looming ahead sounds more like an impending negative consequence.
My 2 cents anyway.
this post was submitted on 30 Aug 2023
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English As a Second Language
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All things for those who use the English language but still there's a lot to learn.
Please follow the instance's guidelines and keep on-topic. Any level of question is welcome, either from a beginner or from an almost-native speaker.
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If you used either, I'd understand perfectly what you meant.
EDIT: I should point out that "looming" suggests something ominous or negative. Where "lingering" doesn't necessarily mean a negative upcoming event, only one that is likely unavoidable.
Long-time English speaker here (and trying to learn another language)... In general it sounds good, but be aware of your context. It's a more interesting way to say the same thing, but would give pause to listeners. This would be good in general conversation but if trying to quickly make a point "looming ahead" would be faster. HTH.
I like it, I would immediately understand what you're saying and I'm pretty sure I've heard it before. Good to go in this American Internet stranger's opinion.