Protraction

Protraction is the act of prolonging or extending something, especially the duration or the course of an event, process, or period of time. It implies a delay, an extension beyond the expected or intended endpoint. This can apply to physical actions, such as lengthening a time period or delaying a meeting, as well as abstract concepts like delaying negotiations or extending legal proceedings. It is the act of making something last longer than it otherwise would, often with an implication of intentionality or deliberateness, although this isn't always the case.

Protraction meaning with examples

• The protraction of the peace talks meant that families remained separated for months longer than initially hoped. Negotiations stalled due to disagreements over territory. Continued diplomatic efforts and compromises sought to prevent a full-scale war and a further protraction of the conflict. The outcome would impact the lives of countless civilians in the affected regions, leaving them in a state of uncertainty.
• Due to unforeseen circumstances, the construction project experienced significant protraction, far exceeding the original deadline. Unexpected soil conditions caused delays, while material shortages further impeded the work schedule. With all factors at play, the protraction impacted project costs and required renegotiations of contractor agreements. This resulted in frustration for the property owners.
• The protraction of the trial, marked by numerous legal challenges and complex evidence, exhausted both the defendants and the prosecution. Delays in the investigation, including the sourcing of evidence and testimony led to extended court proceedings. Each day of the protraction added to the mounting legal costs and fueled public speculation. The outcome, whatever it was, was going to take time to find.
• The politician's protraction of the speech, filled with lengthy anecdotes and digressions, tested the patience of the audience. The initial speech was meant to last an hour, but was instead drawn out. Some audience members began to get restless and checked their watch, as did the cameras in the crowd. It felt like forever to some, while others enjoyed the extended insight of the presenter.