PROLONG Synonyms: 25 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: How are the words 'protract' and 'prolong' related?

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

prolong

verb

prə-ˈlȯŋ

Definition of prolong next

as in to lengthen

to make longer would like to prolong our vacation by any means possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of prolong Improve Energy Efficiency: Climate change not only brings about more extreme weather but also prolonged heat waves. —

Monica Sanders, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024 Clothing, towels, and bedding can harbor bacteria and viruses that can spread to others, and which can prolong illnesses by reinfecting the sick person. —

Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2024 County meetings are often prolonged by members of the public who opposed Burgess’ hiring and who don’t trust voting equipment. —

Christina A. Cassidy, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2024 Such a restricted schedule will prolong any wait time. —

Eric Wood, Forbes, 26 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for prolong

Recent Examples of Synonyms for prolong

Verb

Your first instinct is to pull your head toward your shoulder, trying to lengthen your stiff, sore muscles.

Cindy Kuzma, SELF, 29 Oct. 2024
There are notes of citrus, vanilla, spice, and milk chocolate on the palate, and at 48.1 percent ABV just a bit of heat to lengthen the finish a bit.

Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 28 Oct. 2024