Lungo vs. prolungato
The Italian words 'lungo' and 'prolungato' both relate to length or duration, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Lungo
'Lungo' is an adjective meaning 'long' in terms of physical length, time duration, or distance. It's more commonly used and versatile.
Ho fatto una lunga passeggiata nel parco.
(I took a long walk in the park.)
Il film era lungo due ore.
(The movie was two hours long.)
La strada per Roma è molto lunga.
(The road to Rome is very long.)
Prolungato
'Prolungato' is the past participle of the verb 'prolungare' (to prolong) and is used as an adjective meaning 'prolonged' or 'extended'. It often implies something that has been deliberately lengthened or has continued longer than expected.
A causa dello sciopero, c'è stato un ritardo prolungato.
(Due to the strike, there was a prolonged delay.)
L'esposizione prolungata al sole può causare scottature.
(Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause sunburn.)
Il medico ha prescritto un trattamento prolungato.
(The doctor prescribed an extended treatment.)
Summary
While 'lungo' is a more general term for 'long' in various contexts, 'prolungato' specifically refers to something extended or prolonged, often with a sense of deliberate continuation or unexpected duration. 'Lungo' is more commonly used in everyday language, while 'prolungato' tends to appear in more formal or specific contexts.