after a protracted interval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "after a protracted interval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that occurs following a long period of time or delay. Example: "After a protracted interval, the negotiations finally resumed, bringing hope for a resolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Indeed, dominance becomes the special case because it is dependent on a particular juxtaposition of tectonic and/or climatic elements over a protracted interval in a given area.

Britannica

The occasion is also their official reunion after a protracted separation.

The New York Times

AFTER such a protracted contest, a coin toss seems a fitting way to end it.

The Economist

I had evidence that we were doing it better, and could never have imagined the protracted interval of shame I would experience as an adult, when people around me would ask, quite rightly, just what Americans thought they were doing.

Huffington Post

Only after a protracted struggle was the opposition overcome.

The Guardian - Business

After a protracted struggle, conscription was belatedly introduced.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Icahn was named chairman after a protracted proxy battle.

The New York Times

After a protracted series of court battles, they succeeded.

The Guardian

Died at home on August 7, 2005 after a protracted illness.

The New York Times

The filing comes after a protracted period of uncertainty.

The New York Times

After a protracted legal wrangle, the charge was eventually dropped.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "after a protracted interval" when you want to emphasize that a significant amount of time has passed, particularly when the delay was unexpected or problematic. It adds a formal tone to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "after a protracted interval" in casual or informal writing. Its formality can sound out of place and stilted in everyday conversation or less serious content. Opt for simpler alternatives like "after a long time" or "after a delay" in those scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "after a protracted interval" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when an action occurred in relation to a preceding period of time. Given Ludwig's analysis, this indicates correct and usable English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "after a protracted interval" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to indicate that something occurs following a significant delay. While the example count is limited, and Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, it's best suited for formal contexts due to its sophisticated tone. Simpler alternatives are preferable in casual settings. The phrase effectively emphasizes the duration of time passed before a subsequent event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following a lengthy period

Emphasizes the length of the period more directly.

after a considerable delay

Focuses on the delay aspect.

subsequent to a prolonged gap

More formal and emphasizes the gap in time.

following an extended duration

Similar meaning, but emphasizes the extent of the duration.

after a drawn-out period

Suggests the period was unnecessarily long.

following a long-lasting phase

Focuses on the phase being long lasting.

after a significant time lapse

Highlights the lapse in time.

following a substantial break

Emphasizes the break or interruption.

after a noticeable space of time

Highlights that the time passed was significant enough to notice.

once a long time had passed

A more general and less formal way to express the same idea.

FAQs

How can I use "after a protracted interval" in a sentence?

You can use "after a protracted interval" to indicate that something happened following a significant delay or extended period of time. For example, "After a protracted interval, the negotiations finally resumed."

What's a simpler way to say "after a protracted interval"?

Simpler alternatives include "after a long delay", "following a lengthy period", or "after a considerable time". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "after a protracted interval" suitable for informal writing?

No, "after a protracted interval" is generally too formal for casual or informal writing. Consider using a phrase like "after a long time" or "after a delay" instead.

What does "protracted" mean in the phrase "after a protracted interval"?

In this context, "protracted" means prolonged or extended in time. It emphasizes that the interval was longer than expected or desired.