prolonged

/prəˈlɒŋd/
extended in time

The prolonged negotiations finally led to a breakthrough.

The negotiations that lasted a long time finally resulted in a solution.


general

lasting or continuing for a long time

The doctor recommended a prolonged rest period for recovery.

The doctor suggested taking a long rest to heal properly.

The prolonged silence made everyone uncomfortable.

The long period of silence made everyone feel uneasy.

Often used to describe something that continues beyond the usual or expected duration.

Collocations

prolonged exposurebeing exposed to something for a long timeprolonged illnessa sickness that lasts a long timeprolonged silencea long period without speaking

Pro Tip

Common Usage

Use 'prolonged' to describe something that lasts longer than expected or usual, often in formal or serious contexts.

Word Origin

From Middle English prolongen, from Old French prolonger, from Latin prolongare (to lengthen), from pro- (forward) + longus (long).

Usage Notes

Can be used in both formal and informal contexts, often to emphasize the duration of something beyond what is usual or expected.

Word Breakdown

pro-
forward
prefix
+
-long-
long
root
+
-ed
past participle
suffix
English Dictionary