Basic Details
Word: Prolong
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To make something last longer or to extend the duration of something.
Synonyms: Extend, lengthen, stretch
Antonyms: Shorten, reduce, cut
Idioms and Phrases
- Prolong the inevitable: To delay something that is unavoidable. Example: "By refusing to talk about their problems, they are just prolonging the inevitable breakup."
- Prolong one's stay: To stay longer than initially planned. Example: "I decided to prolong my stay at the beach to enjoy the sunny weather a little more."
Usage Examples
Example 1: We had to prolong the meeting because there were many important topics still to discuss.
Example 2: The rainstorm might prolong our journey, making it necessary to find shelter.
Example 3: She tried to prolong her bedtime by asking for another story.
Fun Fact
The word "prolong" comes from the Latin word "prolongare," which is made of "pro-" meaning "forward" and "longus" meaning "long." The combination indicates making something longer.
Famous Quote
"You can't prolong a conversation that wasn't meant to happen." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "prolong" mean?
a) To make something shorter
b) To make something last longer
c) To make something heavier
d) To make something easier
Answer: b) To make something last longer
2. Which of these is a synonym of "prolong"?
a) Shorten
b) Cut
c) Extend
d) Reduce
Answer: c) Extend
3. Which word is an antonym of "prolong"?
a) Lengthen
b) Stretch
c) Reduce
d) Increase
Answer: c) Reduce
4. Which sentence uses "prolong" correctly?
a) I want to prolong my homework to finish it faster.
b) They decided to prolong the concert for everyone to enjoy.
c) She had to prolong her drink quickly.
d) He was happy to prolong the meeting and leave early.
Answer: b) They decided to prolong the concert for everyone to enjoy.
5. Which idiom means to delay something that is unavoidable?
a) Prolong one's stay
b) Prolong the inevitable
c) As easy as pie
d) A stitch in time saves nine
Answer: b) Prolong the inevitable
