Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a prolonged operation
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a prolonged operation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a medical procedure or any task that takes an extended amount of time to complete. Example: "The patient underwent a prolonged operation that lasted several hours due to the complexity of the case."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
A prolonged operation would have far-reaching political implications abroad as well as in the United States.
News & Media
The coexistence of graphene additive reduces the initial voltage delay; thus, a prolonged operation voltage is observed with enhanced electronic conductivity, with specific capacity of ~ 462 matg−1 at 5C rate and 661 matg−1Cat 1C rate.
However, this BN (or TBN) is inadequate for low sulphur fuels: a prolonged operation with low sulphur fuel oil and lubricating oil with BN (or TBN) of 70 could cause the formation of calcium deposits (CaCO3) and so a considerable abrasive wear.
The principles of damage control have led to improved survival and to the stopping of bleeding until the physiologic derangement has been restored and the patient could undergo a prolonged operation for definitive repair.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
55 human-written examples
A few days earlier, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said a no-fly zone could require a huge, prolonged operation, an argument challenged by some military planners.
News & Media
"Obviously it's going to be a very prolonged operation.
News & Media
It is a prolonged process.
News & Media
- = not mentioned in manuscript No important inconsistencies among the nine studies were found in the direction of effect and the size of differences in effect; prolonged operation time, extra operative procedures, less postoperative knee ROM, and no increase of revision surgery was noticed for patients receiving TKA after prior HTO in the studies reflecting on the aforementioned outcomes.
The pressure drop appeared to be low, reflecting that the TBAB system could be employed in the prolonged operation with a low running penalty.
Science
The preliminary experimental results under off-design conditions showed that the average net power output was 219.5 kW with a fluctuation of ±5.5 kW during prolonged operation.
Science
He performed so well that his bosses gave him a commendation "for his outstanding initiative and investigative skills in a prolonged sensitive operation for a four-year period".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing medical procedures, use “a prolonged operation” to convey the complexity and time commitment involved. For example, "The patient underwent "a prolonged operation" to repair the damaged tissue."
Common error
Avoid using “a prolonged operation” when a simpler term like "long operation" or "lengthy task" would suffice. The phrase is best reserved for situations where the extended duration is a significant factor.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a prolonged operation" functions as a noun phrase, where "prolonged" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "operation". Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correct and usable nature in describing tasks or procedures of considerable duration.
Frequent in
Science
50%
News & Media
40%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a prolonged operation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI, to describe something that takes considerable time. It commonly appears in scientific and news contexts, highlighting the duration and potential complexity of the operation. When writing, consider alternatives like "a lengthy procedure" or "an extended operation" for slight variations in emphasis. Be mindful to reserve this phrase for instances where the extended duration is a noteworthy aspect. Overall, the phrase effectively communicates the time-intensive nature of an operation in various fields.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a lengthy procedure
Emphasizes the duration and the formal nature of the process.
an extended operation
Highlights the increased duration compared to a typical operation.
a drawn-out operation
Suggests the operation took longer than desired or expected.
a protracted operation
Indicates the operation was unnecessarily long or tedious.
a time-consuming operation
Focuses on the amount of time the operation requires.
a long-lasting operation
Emphasizes the duration and persistence of the operation.
a sustained operation
Highlights the continuous and maintained nature of the operation.
a marathon operation
Draws a parallel to a marathon, emphasizing the endurance required.
a lengthy undertaking
A more general term that can be used if 'operation' is too specific.
a prolonged endeavor
Similar to undertaking, but emphasizes effort and difficulty.
FAQs
How can I use "a prolonged operation" in a sentence?
You can use "a prolonged operation" to describe something that takes a long time and significant effort. For example: "The success of the mission depended on "a prolonged operation" of surveillance and data gathering."
What are some alternatives to "a prolonged operation"?
You can use alternatives like "a lengthy procedure", "an extended operation", or "a drawn-out operation" depending on the context.
Is it better to say "a prolonged operation" or "a long operation"?
While both are correct, "a prolonged operation" often implies that the duration was extended or perhaps even unexpectedly long. "A long operation" is a more neutral description of duration.
What's the difference between "a prolonged operation" and "a sustained operation"?
"A prolonged operation" emphasizes the length of time, while "a sustained operation" emphasizes the continuous or maintained nature of the activity. For example, "a sustained operation" implies continuous effort, whereas "a prolonged operation" only highlights that the effort took a long time.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested