contract
4 antonyms and opposites of contract, grouped by meaning.
Noun — A written or spoken agreement, especially one intended to be enforceable by law.
Antonyms
How to use contract
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French contract, from Latin contractus, the noun from contrahere ("to draw together, to conclude a bargain") — from con- ("together") plus trahere ("to draw, pull").
Full origin of contract →Frequently asked questions
What does “contract” mean?
The word “contract” means a written or spoken agreement, especially one intended to be enforceable by law. In plain terms, a formal agreement between parties, or, as a verb, to shrink — or to catch a disease.
How do you pronounce “contract”?
“Contract” is pronounced KONT-rakt (/ˈkɑntɹækt/ in IPA).
How do you use “contract” in a sentence?
Here is “contract” used in a sentence: “She signed a two-year contract with the new employer.”
What is the opposite of “contract”?
The opposite of “contract” — its antonyms — are increase, expand, grow and lengthen.
What part of speech is “contract”?
Depending on how it is used, “contract” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “contract” come from?
The word “contract” comes from Latin. From Old French contract, from Latin contractus, the noun from contrahere ("to draw together, to conclude a bargain") — from con- ("together") plus trahere ("to draw, pull").
Is “contract” a common word?
“Contract” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “contract” have?
“Contract” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a written or spoken agreement, especially one intended to be enforceable by law.
What is the difference between a contract and an agreement?
Every contract is an agreement, but not every agreement is a contract. An agreement is simply a shared understanding between parties. It becomes a contract when it meets legal requirements — such as an offer, acceptance, and something of value exchanged — that make it enforceable in a court of law.
What makes a contract legally binding?
A contract typically needs several elements: a clear offer, acceptance of that offer, 'consideration' (something of value exchanged), an intention to be legally bound, and parties with the capacity to agree. When these are present and the terms are lawful, the agreement can usually be enforced in court.
Can a contract be spoken rather than written?
Yes. A verbal contract can be just as valid as a written one, and people make them constantly — agreeing a price or accepting a job. The catch is proof: without a written record, it is far harder to show what was agreed. Some contracts, such as property sales, must legally be in writing.
Can a contract be broken?
It can, but doing so usually has consequences. When one party fails to meet its terms, that is a 'breach', and the other side may claim compensation or other remedies through the courts. Contracts can also be ended lawfully — by mutual agreement, or under terms written into the deal itself.