Words / C1

pr-uh-LONG/prəˈlɒŋ/

To prolong is to make something last longer: prolong a sitting, prolong the uncertainty. Extend (already in the dictionary) is the close twin; shorten is opposite; delay is wait before start. Do not prolong an unstaffed sitting as kindness.

Meaning

To make something last longer.

Examples

• “Do not prolong an unstaffed sitting “to be kind”.”
• “Extend is everyday/formal and already in this course. Lengthen is physical. Prolong often marks something already difficult. A scheduled extra hour with cover is an extension; without cover it is a risk.”

Good to know

Make it last longer. Close: extend (already in the dictionary). Contrast: delay (before it starts). Kindness still needs staff.

Near in meaning

extend

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