"Protractive" is an adjective that means extended, prolonged, or drawn out, while "proactive" means taking initiative. "Protractive," however, is not a common form of the verb "protract," and "protracted" is the preferred adjective form of the word over "protractive." In some dictionaries, "protractive" is not seen as an accepted form of the word with only "protracted" as the official adjective form of the term.
Although, "protractive" and "proactive" share many of the same letters, they have completely different meanings. "Proactive" means to take action by causing change in anticipation of the future rather than just reacting to change when it happens.
Official and accepted forms of the word "protractive" include:
- protract (verb): to extend or prolong in space or time
- protracted (adjective or past tense verb): extended or prolonged
- protraction (noun): the act of extending or prolonging
- protractor (noun): a tool used to measure or draw angles
Example sentences
Protractive
Note that "protracted" is the more common and preferred adjective form of the verb "protract" over "protractive," so it is best to opt for using "protracted" instead of "protractive."
- The protractive discussion about the project's budget left the team feeling frustrated.
- Due to the protractive nature of the trial, it took several months to reach a verdict.
- The protractive negotiations between the two countries finally yielded a peace agreement.
- The protractive delay in receiving the necessary permits affected the construction timeline.
- Her protractive explanation only added to the confusion instead of clarifying matters.
- The protractive decision-making process within the company hindered its ability to adapt quickly.
- The protractive illness forced him to take an extended leave from work.
- The protractive rainfall caused flooding in many low-lying areas.
- Despite these protractive efforts to secure funding, the project had to be put on hold.
- The protractive negotiations between the labor union and management resulted in improved working conditions.
Proactive
- She took a proactive approach to her health by maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
- The company implemented a proactive strategy to address potential challenges before they arose.
- Being proactive in maintaining your car can prevent costly repairs in the future.
- The teacher appreciated the proactive students who always participated in class discussions.
- The team's proactive measures ensured a smooth transition during the office relocation.
- The proactive employee suggested innovative ideas to improve the company's processes.
- The government implemented proactive policies to mitigate the effects of climate change.
- The IT department's proactive monitoring of the network prevented a potential data breach.
- The proactive approach of the fire department led to timely evacuation during the emergency.
- The principal praised the student council for their proactive efforts in organizing charity events.
Want to sound like a native speaker?
Engram’s AI-powered grammar checker makes your English sound like a native speaker’s, suggesting natural English expressions on top of fixing grammar, spelling, punctuation, word order, and vocabulary.
Reference:
Share Article
