What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
elongated
Example
The elongated neck of the giraffe allows it to reach high branches. [elongated: adjective]
Example
The artist created an elongated sculpture that stretched across the entire room. [elongated: past participle]
lengthened
Example
The tailor lengthened the pants to fit the customer's longer legs. [lengthened: verb]
Example
The lengthened daylight hours in summer allow for more outdoor activities. [lengthened: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lengthened is more commonly used than elongated in everyday language. Lengthened is a versatile word that can be used in many contexts, while elongated is less common and often used in specific situations where a particular shape or appearance is being described.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between elongated and lengthened?
Both elongated and lengthened are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or technical writing. However, elongated may have a more sophisticated or artistic connotation, while lengthened is more neutral and straightforward.
