Basic Details
Word: Contracted
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To make something smaller or tighter or to become smaller or tighter.
Synonyms: Shrunk, reduced, tightened
Antonyms: Expanded, enlarged, broadened
Idioms and Phrases
- Contracted to a small space: Used to describe something that has become much smaller than its original size. Example: "The balloon contracted to a small space after it lost air."
- Not to be contracted: Indicates that something cannot be reduced or limited. Example: "Her determination was not to be contracted, no matter the challenges she faced."
Usage Examples
Example 1: When the temperature dropped, the metal contracted and made a cracking sound.
Example 2: The muscles in his arm contracted when he lifted the heavy weight.
Example 3: The globe seemed to have contracted as the images were zoomed in on the map.
Fun Fact
The word "contract" comes from the Latin word "contractus," which means "drawn together." This reflects the idea of something being pulled in or reduced in size.
Famous Quote
"A good friend is like a four-leaf clover: hard to find and lucky to have." Irish Proverb. (This relates to how relationships can sometimes feel contracted, but they also bring great fortune and luck.)
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "contracted" mean?
a) Made bigger
b) Made smaller or tighter
c) Made heavier
d) Made lighter
Answer: b) Made smaller or tighter
2. Which of these is a synonym of "contracted"?
a) Expanded
b) Reduced
c) Enlarged
d) Broad
Answer: b) Reduced
3. Which word is an antonym of "contracted"?
a) Shrunk
b) Tightened
c) Enlarged
d) Reduced
Answer: c) Enlarged
4. Which sentence uses "contracted" correctly?
a) The balloon contracted when it was filled with air.
b) The team contracted to be the best in the league.
c) The flowers contracted into beautiful colours.
d) The athlete's speed contracted during the race.
Answer: a) The balloon contracted when it was filled with air.
5. What does "not to be contracted" mean?
a) To grow larger and stronger
b) To be able to change size
c) To not be reduced or limited
d) To always be small
Answer: c) To not be reduced or limited
