protract
To extend or prolong something in time
Examples
In a meeting
“Let's not protract this discussion—we need to make a decision today.”
Over coffee
“The repairs were protracted due to missing parts.”
Why this word
extend
Protract implies prolonging something tediously or beyond what's desired, while extend is neutral about duration being unwelcome
lengthen
Protract suggests drawing out unnecessarily or painfully, while lengthen simply means making longer
prolong
Protract emphasizes drawing out in time, often excessively, while prolong is slightly less negative about the extension
Usage tip
Use when something is being unnecessarily or unfortunately prolonged; often has negative connotation.
Etymology
Latin 'protrahere' meaning 'to draw forth' from 'pro-' (forward) + 'trahere' (to draw)
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Related words
subsequent
Coming after something in time or order.
perpetual
Never ending or changing; occurring continuously.
defer
To postpone something to a later time, or to yield to someone else's judgment.
hinder
To create difficulties that slow progress or prevent success
tenure
The period of time someone holds a position or office
retroactive
Taking effect from a date in the past rather than from the present