protracted time

[prə-ˈtrak-təd ˈtīm]
noun phrasepl: protracted times
tempo prolongado
1. An extended or lengthy period of time; a duration that is longer than expected or desired
After a protracted time in negotiations, the two companies finally reached an agreement.
Após um tempo prolongado em negociações, as duas empresas finalmente chegaram a um acordo.
2. A drawn-out or delayed span of time characterized by slowness or gradual progression
The patient's recovery took a protracted time, requiring months of rehabilitation.
A recuperação do paciente levou um tempo prolongado, exigindo meses de reabilitação.
This phrase is commonly used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese in formal and professional contexts, particularly in legal, medical, and business discussions. In Brazil, the term 'tempo prolongado' carries the same connotation of administrative or procedural delays, which is a frequent topic in discourse about bureaucracy.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
extended timelengthy periodprolonged durationdrawn-out spanprotracted period
Antonyms / Antônimos
brief timeshort periodquick spanabbreviated durationfleeting moment

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
tempo prolongado
Most common usage in Brazilian Portuguese
Brazil
período demorado
Alternative expression emphasizing the slow nature
Portugal
tempo prolongado
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; also used as 'período dilatado'
Formal contexts
período estendido
More formal register in legal or academic documents

Related Words

protractedprolongeddurationlengthyextendeddelayprolongation

Related Idioms & Phrases

take a protracted time
over a protracted time
for a protracted time
after a protracted time
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