Definitions
- Describing an increase in the physical size or duration of something. - Referring to the extension of a physical object or distance. - Talking about the expansion of time, such as a deadline or schedule.
- Referring to the extension of time, particularly in the sense of delaying or postponing something. - Describing the continuation of a situation or condition beyond its expected or natural end. - Talking about the preservation or maintenance of something over time.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to an increase in time or duration.
- 2Both words can be used in the context of physical objects or distances.
- 3Both words involve extending or expanding something beyond its original state.
- 4Both words can be used in the context of schedules or deadlines.
- 5Both words imply a positive outcome or result from the extension.
What is the difference?
- 1Intention: Lengthen emphasizes the increase in size or duration, while prolong emphasizes the delay or continuation of something.
- 2Action: Lengthen involves physically making something longer, while prolong involves delaying or extending something beyond its natural end.
- 3Connotation: Lengthen has a neutral connotation, while prolong can have a negative connotation if the extension is seen as unnecessary or harmful.
- 4Usage: Lengthen is more commonly used in the context of physical objects or distances, while prolong is more commonly used in the context of time or situations.
- 5Result: Lengthen implies a physical change or growth, while prolong implies a continuation or preservation of something.
Remember this!
Lengthen and prolong both refer to an increase in time or duration, but they differ in their intention and action. Lengthen emphasizes the physical increase in size or duration, while prolong emphasizes the delay or continuation of something beyond its natural end. Additionally, lengthen is more commonly used in the context of physical objects or distances, while prolong is more commonly used in the context of time or situations.
