"last" vs "prolong"

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Hi,
Please have a look at this:

  • How does the play…
    a. last
    b. extend
    c. prolong
    d. stretch
    => I choose c. Am I right or wrong?

Many thanks
Nessie

2

Hi Nessie

If you want to ask about the duration of something, you can use the verb ‘last’.
The meaning of the verb ‘prolong’ doesn’t really make sense in the sentence. In addition, the verb prolong would have to have an object.

3

Hi, Amy

Wouldn’t it be right to say How long does the play last.
I mean, the omission of long would have a detrimental impact on the sentence, or would it not?

Thanks !

4

Hi Alex

You’re right. The sentence would be logical with ‘how long’. I had assumed the omission of ‘long’ was probably a typo, and had also intended to mention it, but in the end I didn’t (as you noticed). :smiley:

I wouldn’t say the the omission of ‘long’ is detrimental. Instead I’d say that it changes the meaning of the sentence.

Nevertheless, even without the word ‘long’, I still wouldn’t choose the verb ‘prolong’ for the sentence.
.

5

Nessie must have made a typo, Amy. I’ve taken the same test and I’m pretty sure the question is “How long does the play…”.

6

Yea, that’s a typo. Sorry everyone :slight_smile: