Synonyms for
Contract
Definition
A contract is an agreement between two or more parties that is enforceable by law.
Synonyms & similar words
squeeze
compact
declaration
constrict
foreshorten
stretch
cut
sign
abridge
condense
narrow
compress
concentrate
abbreviate
get
shrink
take
reduce
undertake
shorten
expand
press
widen
agreement
deal
pact
covenant
bargain
compact
settlement
understanding
accord
arrangement
commitment
promise
bond
oath
pledge
word
convention
treaty
transaction
protocol
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- sign a contract
- breach of contract
- enter into a contract
- contract law
- employment contract
- written contract
- verbal contract
- contract negotiations
Word family
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
- We signed a contract to buy a house.
- The contract states that the work must be completed by the end of the month.
- The athlete signed a five-year contract with the team.
- The company agreed to a new contract with its employees.
- 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.