Synonyms of prolong

prolong

verb

prə-ˈlȯŋ 

as in to lengthen

to make longer

would like to prolong our vacation by any means possible

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lengthen
• extend
• increase
• stretch
• protract
• elongate
• drag (out)
• draw out
• expand
• enlarge
• outstretch
• amplify
• attenuate
• thin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shorten
• curtail
• cut
• reduce
• cut back
• decrease
• diminish
• lessen
• abridge
• abbreviate
• thicken

Synonym Chooser

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of prolong

The Hungarian leader says that the war should be finished as quickly as possible, not prolonged by further Western support for Ukraine. —Alexander Smith, NBC news, 11 Apr. 2026

Because bath bombs release a high concentration of dye into a fairly small amount of water, the pigment has prolonged contact with the tub’s surface. —Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 10 Apr. 2026

Opposition figures argue that while Maduro’s removal created an opening, the continuation of Chavista leadership has prolonged uncertainty and delayed a democratic transition. —Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026

The Ducks square off with Macklin Celebrini and the San Jose Sharks on Thursday, a group that has won five of six to prolong its postseason hopes. —Andrew Knoll, Oc Register, 8 Apr. 2026