Definitions and Examples of lengthen, extend, prolong
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To make something longer in size, duration, or extent.
Example
The teacher decided to lengthen the exam time to give students more time to complete the test.
To make something longer or larger in size, space, or time.
Example
The company decided to extend the deadline for the project to allow more time for research and development.
To make something last longer than expected or necessary.
Example
The doctor recommended a treatment to prolong the patient's life expectancy.
Key Differences: lengthen vs extend vs prolong
- 1Lengthen refers to making something physically longer or extending its duration.
- 2Extend refers to making something longer in space, time, or quantity.
- 3Prolong refers to making something last longer than expected or necessary.
Effective Usage of lengthen, extend, prolong
- 1Time: Use lengthen to describe making time longer, such as extending a deadline or exam time.
- 2Distance: Use extend to describe making something longer in space, such as extending a road or bridge.
- 3Physical Objects: Use prolong to describe making something last longer than expected, such as prolonging the life of a machine or device.
Remember this!
The antonyms of shorten are lengthen, extend, and prolong. Use lengthen to describe making something physically longer or extending its duration, extend to describe making something longer in space, time, or quantity, and prolong to describe making something last longer than expected or necessary. These words can be used in various contexts, such as time, distance, or physical objects.
