# prolong

/pɹəˈɫɔŋ/ (US) · /pɹəlˈɒŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prolong
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to extend in time

verb · CEFR B2

to make something last for a longer time than expected or planned.

For teachers: to extend the duration of an event, state, or condition. Transitive — requires a direct object.

- The meeting was supposed to end at noon, but the debate prolonged it by an hour.
- The administration sought to prolong the negotiations in hopes that a favorable economic shift would strengthen their bargaining position.

Usage: Commonly used with abstract nouns like 'life', 'stay', 'agony', or 'negotiations'.

### 2. to extend in space

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

to make something physically longer.

For teachers: to extend the physical length or reach of a line or object.

- The architect decided to prolong the line of the roof to create more shade.
- The surveyor explained how to prolong the boundary line across the uneven terrain using precise laser measurements.

Usage: Often used in geometry, architecture, or technical drawing contexts.

## Examples

- The doctor gave him medicine to prolong his life.
- The referee decided to prolong the match by five minutes because of the earlier injury.
- The legal team attempted to prolong the negotiations in hopes that a more favorable economic climate would emerge before the final contract was signed.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.