English Reference

Word

prolonged

Phoneticspro·longed, stress on the second syllable

US/pɹəˈɫɔŋd/

UK/pɹəlˈɒŋd/

Definitions

01lasting a long time

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. lasting for a long time, especially longer than usual.

adj. continuing for a notably long period; extended in duration or time.

“The country suffered through a prolonged period of dry weather this summer.”

“The patient required a prolonged recovery period following the surgery, as the complications had been more severe than the medical team initially anticipated.”

Antonyms

02made something last longer

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. the past tense of 'prolong', meaning you made something last for more time.

v. the past tense and past participle of the transitive verb 'prolong', indicating the act of extending the duration of an event or state.

“They prolonged their stay by two days because they liked the city so much.”

“The mediator's intervention effectively prolonged the negotiations, allowing both parties to reconsider their positions before the final deadline.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “prolonged” in context.

01. prolonged dry 02. prolonged heat 03. prolonged hot

Real-World Examples

“Meanwhile, Western Europe experienced its hottest ever June and July, with prolonged hot and dry conditions fuelling extreme wildfires across the region.”
BBC News 10 Aug 2026
“While drought is driven by prolonged dry weather, water scarcity occurs when demand for water outstrips the available supply.”
BBC News 7 Aug 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference