Spanish word

alargar

Pronunciation

IPA/alaɾˈɣaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbextend

Example

¿Puedes alargar la reunión cinco minutos?

Can you extend the meeting by five minutes?

Illustration for alargar (extend)

More examples

He decidido alargar mi estancia en Madrid.

I have decided to extend my stay in Madrid.

Core concept

Measuring tape pulled out to a greater length.

Common phrases

  • alargar la estancia

    extend the stay

  • alargar la espera

    extend the wait

  • alargar la sobremesa

    extend the after-dinner conversation

Similar words

extender: Expands an object's length or range outward, increasing its span or reach.
prolongar: Prolongs an event or time period so it continues for a longer duration.
estirar: Stretches fabric, muscles, or similar materials by pulling to make them longer.

Definition in Spanish

Hacer que algo tenga más longitud o más duración en el tiempo.

Word origin

From the adjective largo 'long' (from Latin longus) plus the verb-forming suffix -ar and an initial a-, giving the sense 'to make long'.

Usage tips

  • Alargar takes a direct object to mean making something longer (alargar la reunión), while alargarse is used when something lengthens on its own.

Other meanings

  • lengthenverb
  • stretchverb

Opposites

Related words

  • alargamientoextensionnoun
  • alargableextendableadjective

Word lists with this word