contract
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkɒntrækt/
KK: /ˈkɒntrækt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make an agreement or to enter into a formal arrangement with someone.
Example
The company decided to contract with a new supplier for their materials.
Tense Forms
Past: contracted
Past Participle: contracted
Conversation
Did you hear they are going to contract a new company for the landscaping?
Really? I thought they were happy with the current team.
I guess they wanted to try something new and see if it improves the look.
That makes sense; change can be good sometimes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
agree
commit
bind
Antonyms
disagree
release
sever
noun
Definition
A formal agreement between two or more parties that is legally binding and enforceable, often written down.
Example
They signed a contract to finalize the sale of the house.
Conversation
Have you seen the new contract for the project?
Not yet, what does it say?
It outlines the deadlines and the budget we need to stick to.
transitive verb
Definition
To make a formal agreement or to become smaller or tighter.
Example
The company decided to contract with a new supplier for their materials.
Tense Forms
Past: contracted
Past Participle: contracted
Conversation
Did you know that when you get cold, your muscles contract?
Really? I didn’t know that was the reason!
Yeah, it’s pretty interesting how our bodies react to temperature.
Root Explanation
Contract → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "tractus" (meaning to draw or pull). The word describes the act of drawing together or an agreement made between parties.
Memory Tip
Think of people coming 'together' ('con-') to 'draw' ('tractus') up an agreement — that's why a contract is an agreement made between parties.
Visually Confused Words
uncontract
recontract
counteract
subcontract
precontract
counterfact
recontact
construct