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 current tax system could further incentivize wealthy Americans to hold onto assets longer before passing them down, prolonging the Great Wealth Transfer to an extent, but maximizing gains for the next generation of heirs. — Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 15 July 2026

Chief Estella Patterson told committee members officers have a hard time determining the exact age of juveniles without an ID, which delays the investigation and prolongs police interactions. — Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2026

The legislation is expected to be prolonged even further because of the upcoming elections in Israel, which automatically extend temporary legislation by approximately four months. — Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 14 July 2026

That could prolong drought in some areas and increase wildfire concerns if dry conditions persist. — Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 14 July 2026