What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lengthen
Example
The tailor will lengthen the hem of my dress. [lengthen: verb]
Example
The days are starting to lengthen as we move towards summer. [lengthen: verb]
Example
We need to lengthen the meeting by another hour to cover all the topics. [lengthen: verb]
prolong
Example
The medication can prolong the patient's life for several months. [prolong: verb]
Example
The company is trying to prolong the project deadline to avoid rushing the final product. [prolong: verb]
Example
The use of sunscreen can prolong the life of outdoor furniture. [prolong: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prolong is more commonly used than lengthen in everyday language. Prolong is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lengthen is less common and refers to a specific type of extension.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lengthen and prolong?
Both lengthen and prolong are formal words that can be used in professional or academic contexts. However, prolong may have a slightly negative connotation in certain situations, while lengthen is more neutral.
