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Synonyms for

Contract

Noun / ˈkɑ:ˌntrækt / / kʌˈntrækt / Another word for contract — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A contract is an agreement between two or more parties that is enforceable by law.

Synonyms & similar words

declaration shorten concentrate get shrink undertake compress expand contractbridge take signon constrict squeeze abridge narrow abbreviate reduce sign widen press cut condense signup foreshorten compact agreement deal pact covenant bargain compact settlement understanding accord arrangement commitment promise bond oath pledge word convention treaty transaction protocol

Synonyms by register

Formal

agreement covenant pact accord stipulation

Informal

deal arrangement understanding bargain

Literary

bond compact treaty

Antonyms

expand loosen release unfasten disconnect detach separate

Common collocations

  • sign a contract
  • breach of contract
  • enter into a contract
  • contract law
  • employment contract
  • written contract
  • verbal contract
  • contract negotiations

Word family

noun contract
verb contract
adjective contractual

Usage note

As a verb, 'contract' can mean to make smaller or thinner, as in 'the metal will contract in the cold'. This is distinct from its legal meaning of entering into an agreement.

Compare "contract" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. We signed a contract to buy a house.
  2. The contract states that the work must be completed by the end of the month.
  3. The athlete signed a five-year contract with the team.
  4. The company agreed to a new contract with its employees.
  5. The contract was written in legal language that was hard to understand.

Quotes

  • The legal system is often a mystery, and we, its priests, preside over rituals baffling to everyday citizens. One such ceremony is the signing of a contract.
  • A verbal contract isn't worth the paper it's written on.
  • The contract is the backbone of business relationships. It's how individuals and organizations make promises, set expectations, and build trust.

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