Synonyms for

Contraction

Verb / kʌˈntrækʃʌn / Another word for contraction — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A word or group of words that have been shortened by leaving out some of the letters or syllables.

Synonyms & similar words

condensation muscularcontraction musclecontraction expansion compression abbreviation shortening reduction condensation contractionary shrinkage compression constriction narrowing tightening retraction withdrawal diminution decrease lessening minimization cutback curtailment

Synonyms by register

Formal

reduction diminution shortening compression

Informal

tightening shrinking bunching up

Literary

constriction drawing in

Antonyms

expansion extension enlargement growth increase dilation

Common collocations

  • muscle contraction
  • labor contraction
  • economic contraction
  • uterine contraction
  • voluntary contraction
  • involuntary contraction
  • slight contraction
  • rapid contraction

Word family

noun contraction
verb contract
adjective contracted
adverb contractedly

Usage note

Often refers to the shortening of muscles or the reduction in size of an economy. Be mindful of context, as it can also refer to the shortening of words.

Example sentences

  1. He's going to the store. (He is going to the store.)
  2. I'll see you later. (I will see you later.)
  3. We're not going to the party. (We are not going to the party.)
  4. She'll be back soon. (She will be back soon.)
  5. They're going on vacation. (They are going on vacation.)

Quotes

  • The contraction of the railroad lines is a great mistake. - William Tecumseh Sherman
  • The contraction of any great tradition is a bitter thing. - George Santayana
  • The contraction of the national currency... is a thing of great injury to all classes. - William Howard Taft

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words