Contract Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
contract
[หkษntrรฆkt ]
Definitions
legal
A written or spoken agreement, especially one concerning employment, sales, or tenancy, that is intended to be legally enforceable.
Synonyms
agreement, compact, covenant, deal.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contract |
Used in formal business and legal settings to define a formal agreement between parties that are enforceable by law.
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| agreement |
A general term for a mutual understanding or arrangement between parties, which may or may not be legally binding.
|
| deal |
An informal term often used in business to describe an arrangement or transaction, usually involving a financial aspect.
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| covenant |
Typically used in a legal or religious context to describe a solemn agreement or promise. Often implies a moral or ethical obligation.
|
| compact |
Often used for formal agreements between two organizations, states, or countries, usually with a sense of solemnity.
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Examples of usage
- He signed a contract with the company for a two-year term.
- The contract stipulates the terms and conditions of the agreement.
business
To enter into a formal and legally binding agreement.
Synonyms
agree, commit, obligate, undertake.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contract |
A formal agreement, often legally binding, especially in business or legal matters.
|
| agree |
General consensus or mutual understanding, often informal and used in everyday conversation.
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| commit |
To promise or bind oneself to a certain course of action, often requiring effort or dedication.
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| undertake |
To take on a responsibility or an activity, often suggesting a serious or substantial effort.
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| obligate |
A formal necessity to do something, often mandated by rules or laws, suggesting a sense of duty. Can have a negative connotation if it implies compulsion.
|
Examples of usage
- We contracted with a vendor to provide the necessary materials.
- The company contracted with a marketing agency for a new campaign.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- A contract can be written, oral, or implied, but written contracts provide clearer evidence of the agreement.
- Essential elements of a valid contract include offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual agreement.
Pop Culture
- In many movies, contracts often play a crucial role, such as signing on the dotted line for major deals or changes in the plot.
- Shows like 'Suits' highlight the drama and importance of contracts in legal settings.
Science
- In biology, the term 'contract' can refer to the way muscles shorten during movement, keeping the body active.
- Some animals, like octopuses, can contract their bodies to fit into tight spots for protection or hunting.
Economics
- Contracts are essential in business as they define relationships, obligations, and limits between parties.
- The concept of contracts is foundational in economic theories where secure agreements facilitate trade.
Origin of 'contract'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'contract' comes from the Latin word 'contractus,' meaning 'to draw together or shorten.'
- In the 14th century, the term began to be used in English law to mean agreements between people.
The word 'contract' originated from the Latin word 'contractus', which means 'a drawing together'. In ancient Roman law, 'contractus' referred to a legally binding agreement between two or more parties. Over time, the term evolved to its current usage in English, referring to formal agreements that are enforceable by law.
See also: contracted, contractible, contracting, contraction, contractions, contractor, contractors, contracts, contractual, subcontract, subcontracting.