What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prolong
Example
The company decided to prolong the meeting to discuss further details. [prolong: verb]
Example
The medication can prolong the patient's life expectancy. [prolong: verb]
delay
Example
The flight was delayed due to bad weather conditions. [delayed: past participle]
Example
I had to delay my vacation plans due to work commitments. [delay: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Delay is more commonly used than prolong in everyday language. Delay is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prolong is less common and is typically used in formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between prolong and delay?
Prolong is more formal than delay and is typically used in technical or academic contexts. Delay is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
