pro ‧ trac ‧ ted /prəˈtræktəd, prəˈtræktɪd/ BrE AmE adjective
[ Date: 1500-1600 ; Language: Latin ; Origin: past participle of protrahere 'to draw forward' ]
used to describe something that continues for a long time, especially if it takes longer than usual, necessary, or expected SYN lengthy
protracted negotiations/discussions/debate etc
the expense of a protracted legal battle
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THESAURUS
▪ long continuing for a long time:
The film was very long.
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There has been a long period without rain.
▪ lengthy continuing for a long time, especially longer than you want or expect:
Drivers face lengthy delays on all roads out of the city.
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Police are going through the lengthy process of re-examining all the evidence.
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He faces a lengthy prison sentence.
▪ long-running [only before noun] continuing for a long time - used especially about disputes, campaigns, or shows:
He has been involved in a long-running dispute with his neighbour.
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The programme is one of the longest-running series on television.
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a long-running campaign to prevent the airport from being built
▪ long-lasting continuing for a long time – used especially about effects or relationships:
Stress can have long-lasting effects.
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While at the school, she made many long-lasting friendships.
▪ protracted formal continuing for a long time, especially an unusually long time:
Despite protracted negotiations, they were unable to reach an agreement.
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The couple have been involved in a protracted battle for custody of their children.
▪ prolonged continuing for a long time, especially longer than expected, or longer in a way that makes a situation worse:
He returned to work after a prolonged absence.
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Studies have linked prolonged use of the drug to cancer.
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a prolonged period of economic decline
▪ extended [only before noun] continuing for a long time - used especially about visits, trips, breaks etc that last longer than was planned:
an extended stay in hospital
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He took an extended break from work after his father died.
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She didn’t like being away from home for extended periods.
▪ lasting [only before noun] strong enough or great enough to continue for a long time:
The negotiations were aimed at achieving a lasting peace.
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This affair has done lasting damage to the President’s credibility.
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The book left a lasting impression on me.
▪ enduring continuing for a long time – used especially about memories, influences, or feelings of liking someone or something:
One of my most enduring memories is of going on holiday to France with my parents.
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the enduring appeal of Conan Doyle's stories
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his enduring love for Ireland
▪ marathon [only before noun] continuing for a very long time and needing a lot of energy, patience, or determination:
It was a marathon session of talks which continued until 3 am.
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He arrived after a marathon journey across Europe.