Synonyms for

Prolong

Verb / prʌˈlɔ:ŋ / Another word for prolong — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to extend the time of something

Synonyms & similar words

drawout extend sustain keepup protract lengthen protract stretch extend continue delay defer postpone sustain

Synonyms by register

Formal

extend protract perpetuate sustain

Informal

drag out stretch out keep going make last longer

Literary

lengthen draw out everlast

Antonyms

shorten curtail abridge reduce lessen condense truncate

Common collocations

  • prolong the agony
  • prolong the discussion
  • prolong the life
  • prolong the conflict
  • prolong the suffering
  • prolong the inevitable
  • prolong the stay

Word family

noun prolongation
verb prolong
adjective prolonged

Usage note

Often used to describe making something last longer than necessary or desirable, especially in a negative context like 'prolong the agony'. Can also be used neutrally to extend something.

Example sentences

  1. She wants to prolong the game by taking a time out.
  2. He tried to prolong the meeting by asking irrelevant questions.
  3. The doctor suggested a treatment that might prolong his life.
  4. The cold weather will prolong our stay in the cabin.
  5. The company decided to prolong the deadline for submitting the project.

Quotes

  • Every moment is a golden one for him who has the vision to recognize it as such. - Henry Miller
  • Time is an illusion. Lunchtime doubly so. - Douglas Adams
  • Lost time is never found again. - Benjamin Franklin

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