Synonyms of prolong

prolong

verb

prə-ˈlȯŋ 

as in to lengthen

to make longer

would like to prolong our vacation by any means possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lengthen
• extend
• increase
• stretch
• protract
• elongate
• drag (out)
• draw out
• expand
• enlarge
• outstretch
• amplify
• attenuate
• thin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shorten
• curtail
• cut
• reduce
• cut back
• decrease
• diminish
• lessen
• abridge
• abbreviate
• thicken

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb prolong contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prolong are extend, lengthen, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How do extend and lengthen relate to one another, in the sense of prolong?

Both extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation

extend welfare services

lengthen a skirt

lengthen the workweek

How are the words protract and prolong related?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness.

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of prolong

This once again demonstrates that Russia seeks to prolong the war and postpone peace for as long as possible. —Barak Ravid, Axios, 13 Mar. 2025

This mental loop can intensify and prolong an emotion far beyond its natural course. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025

However, Del Mar residents and others opposed to a tunnel, the only option for an inland train route, have raised questions that prolonged preliminary studies and a possible completion date. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Mar. 2025

The current de facto Moroccan sovereignty only prolongs Sahrawis’ exile, and an escalation would carry steep costs for all sides. —Hannah Rae Armstrong, Foreign Affairs, 4 Mar. 2025