contraction

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A shortened form of a word or words, such as 'can't' for 'cannot'.

   Grammar: Countable: you can talk about 'a contraction' or 'contractions'.

   Patterns

   • a contraction of something
   • use a contraction
   • write something as a contraction

   In informal writing, contractions like 'I'm' and 'don't' are perfectly acceptable.

   The teacher explained that 'won't' is a contraction of 'will not'.

   Some learners find it hard to hear contractions in fast speech.

2. 2noununcountable

   The process of becoming smaller, or the act of making something smaller.

   Grammar: Uncountable when talking about the process in general; countable when referring to a specific instance.

   Patterns

   • the contraction of something
   • economic contraction
   • a contraction in something

   The contraction of the metal as it cooled caused the joint to crack.

   The economy suffered a sharp contraction during the recession.

   The company reported a contraction in sales over the last quarter.

3. 3nouncountablemedical

   A tightening of a muscle, especially the strong pains of childbirth.

   Grammar: Countable: 'a contraction', 'contractions'.

   Patterns

   • a contraction in something
   • have contractions
   • muscle contractions

   She felt regular contractions and knew the baby was coming.

   The athlete suffered a painful contraction in his calf muscle.

   Contractions during labor can be monitored with a special device.

Word forms

Common combinations

muscle contraction

Muscle contraction allows you to move your limbs.

economic contraction

The country experienced a severe economic contraction.

use a contraction

In formal essays, it is often better not to use a contraction.

uterine contractions

Uterine contractions become stronger during labor.

contraction of the heart

The contraction of the heart pushes blood around the body.

Synonyms and how they differ

shortening

A general word for making something shorter; 'contraction' is the usual term for words like 'don't' or for muscle tightening.

tightening

Often used for muscles or screws; 'contraction' is more technical and also covers grammar.

shrinkage

Used especially for materials or business size; 'contraction' is broader and can refer to grammar.

Opposites

Word family

contract verb

To become smaller or tighter, or to make something do this.

contractile adjective

Able to contract, especially of muscle tissue.

contractor noun

A person or company that does work under a contract; not related in meaning to 'contraction'.

Commonly confused: contraction or contract? contraction or constriction?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “contraction”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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