What is contract? Pronunciation and usage in English

contract means . Learn how to pronounce and use contract through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of contract

contractnoun/verb

/ˈkɒntrakt/
Definition & pronunciation of contract

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "contract" in English. It's a bit tricky for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Core Sounds:

  • con-: This part sounds like "con" as in "connect" – think of a short, sharp "con" sound.
  • -tract: This is the trickiest part. It’s pronounced like “trak-t.”

2. Syllable Breakdown & Emphasis:

  • con-tract: It’s two distinct syllables.
  • Emphasis: The first syllable ("con") is stressed (spoken louder and longer).

3. The "Trak-t" Part:

  • “trak”: This is where many people stumble. It's similar to "track" but with a slightly more open "a" sound. Think of it like "track" but a little bit more like "trap." Don't overemphasize the "r" – it's subtle.
  • “t”: The final "t" is pronounced clearly.

Putting it all together:

It sounds something like: "con-trak-t" (with the "con" louder than the others).

Here are some resources that can help you hear it:

Tips for Practice:

  • Slow it down: When you're first learning, say it slowly and deliberately, focusing on each syllable.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.
  • Listen and repeat: Listen to the audio examples above and try to mimic the sounds.

Would you like me to:

  • Break it down further (e.g., focus on a specific sound)?
  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word contract in English

Let's break down how to use the word "contract" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so it's important to understand the context. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Legal Agreement (Most Common Usage)

  • Definition: A formally written agreement between two or more parties outlining terms and conditions. This is the most frequent use of "contract."
  • Examples:
    • "We signed a contract for the renovation of our kitchen."
    • "The company is currently negotiating a contract with a new supplier."
    • “Please read the contract carefully before signing.”
    • "He breached the contract by failing to deliver the goods."
  • Key Words Associated with this meaning: agreement, terms, conditions, obligations, legal, binding, enforceability, warranty.

2. As a Shrinkage (Physical Contraction)

  • Definition: To shrink or become smaller.
  • Examples:
    • "The fabric contracted after washing." (meaning it shrank in size)
    • "The soil contracted in the winter."
    • “The muscles contract during exercise.” (Referring to the action of muscles)
  • Key Words Associated with this meaning: shrink, reduce, diminish, tighten, squeeze.

3. As a Verb (to Contract)

  • Definition: To shrink, become smaller, or to form something (like a muscle).
  • Examples:
    • "The cold weather caused the metal to contract."
    • “The muscle contracts when stimulated.”
    • "She contracted slightly as he spoke." (meaning she tensed up)
  • Common Verb Forms: contract, contracting, contracted

4. Informal/Slang Usage (Less Common)

  • Definition: (Informal) To argue or dispute; to confront. This usage is becoming less common and can sound a little dated.
  • Example: "They were contracting over the budget." (meaning they were arguing about it)

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Category Definition Example
Legal Agreement Formal written agreement “We signed a contract for the service.”
Physical Shrinkage To become smaller “The cloth contracted after washing.”
Verb To shrink, become smaller “The metal contracts in the cold.”
Informal (Slang) To argue, dispute “They contracted over the details.”

Tips for Using “Contract” Correctly:

  • Context is Key: Pay close attention to the surrounding words to determine the intended meaning.
  • Formal vs. Informal: "Contract" is generally a formal word. Avoid using it casually unless you’re referring to a physical shrinkage.
  • Legal Documents: In legal contexts, "contract" is almost always referring to a legally binding agreement.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted information, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use the word “contract” in? (e.g., “I’m writing a legal document,” “I’m talking about clothes shrinking,” “I’m just curious about the word’s meaning”)

Synonyms for the word contract

Practice with vocabulary contract

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. During an economic downturn, many businesses are forced to _______ their spending.
  2. The terms and conditions of the employment _______ were thoroughly reviewed by the legal department.
  3. The company plans to _______ its market share by investing in new technologies.
  4. It took several weeks for the lawyers to _______ the final details of the merger.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The new supplier agreement includes a clause allowing for early termination. What is this document often called? A) receipt B) contract C) memorandum D) invoice

  2. During winter, the metal bridge structure tends to _______ due to the cold temperatures, causing minor shifts. A) inflate B) contract C) expand D) stretch

  3. Our firm decided to _______ with a new cybersecurity provider to enhance data protection. A) dissolve B) dismiss C) contract D) partner

  4. The company's rapid _______ necessitated hiring more staff and opening new branches. A) reduction B) expansion C) compression D) withdrawal

  5. Before finalizing the purchase, the client asked to _______ the terms of payment. A) elaborate B) amend C) dismiss D) reject

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The two companies formalized their agreement to collaborate on the new software project.
  2. Due to the economic slowdown, many businesses are experiencing a decrease in sales and revenue.
  3. It is crucial to carefully review all clauses and conditions before you officially agree to the terms.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. During an economic downturn, many businesses are forced to contract their spending.
  2. The terms and conditions of the employment contract were thoroughly reviewed by the legal department.
  3. The company plans to expand its market share by investing in new technologies.
  4. It took several weeks for the lawyers to negotiate the final details of the merger.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B) contract
  2. B) contract
  3. C) contract, D) partner
  4. B) expansion
  5. B) amend

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The two companies contracted to collaborate on the new software project.
  2. Due to the economic slowdown, many businesses are experiencing a contraction in sales and revenue.
  3. It is crucial to carefully review all clauses and conditions before you officially ratify the agreement.

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