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In what sense do we use "carry a torch for"?
Can it be used as a formal, or is it informal?

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Wiktionary answers this quite well already: en.wiktionary.org/wiki/carry_a_torch_for – z7sg Ѫ Jul 29 '11 at 17:36

closed as general reference by Mitch, Thursagen, z7sg Ѫ, PLL, waiwai933♦ Jul 29 '11 at 21:37

This question is too basic; it can be definitively and permanently answered by a single link to a standard internet reference source designed specifically to find that type of information. See the FAQ for guidance on how to improve it.

1 Answer

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It is informal and it basically means that someone has a crush, or has unfulled desires for someone else.

Joe carried a torch for Sue for years before finally getting the courage up to ask her out on a date.

or

Despite a bad break up in High School, Dave still carries a torch for Lisa.

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thanks@Chad i'll be wondering if you put an example. – Devjosh Jul 29 '11 at 17:22

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