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Contractors Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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contractors

[หˆkษ’ntrรฆktษ™rz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

building industry

Contractors are individuals or companies hired to perform construction work or provide services for a specific project. They are responsible for completing the work within the agreed-upon timeline and budget.

Synonyms

builders, construction workers, developers.

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Word Description / Examples
contractors

Refers to individuals or companies hired to perform specific tasks or complete projects, often with a formal contract. Used broadly in many industries.

  • We hired contractors to renovate our office space.
  • The contractors will begin working on the project next week.
builders

Refers to individuals or companies involved in constructing buildings or other structures. Often used in residential contexts.

  • The builders are making great progress on our new home.
  • We need to find reliable builders for this project.
construction workers

Refers to individuals who perform the physical labor involved in construction projects. Typically refers to lower-skilled or manual labor jobs.

  • The construction workers were on-site early in the morning.
  • Construction workers need to follow safety procedures at all times.
developers

Refers to individuals or companies who invest in and oversee the development of new buildings and real estate projects. Often used in commercial or urban development contexts.

  • The developers are planning to build a new shopping mall downtown.
  • Real estate developers play a key role in urban planning.

Examples of usage

  • Many homeowners hire contractors to renovate their kitchens.
  • The company hired contractors to build a new office building.
  • The contractors are responsible for ensuring the project meets all safety regulations.
Context #2 | Noun

business

Contractors are individuals or companies who are hired to perform specific tasks or provide services for another company. They may work on a freelance basis or have ongoing contracts with a company.

Synonyms

consultants, freelancers, service providers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contractors

Use this term when referring to individuals or companies hired to complete specific projects or tasks, typically in construction or similar fields. Contractors often work under a formal contract and have specialized skills.

  • We hired contractors to renovate our office.
  • The building contractors completed the project on time.
freelancers

Refers to self-employed individuals who offer services to multiple clients, often in creative or technical fields like writing, graphic design, or programming. Freelancers work independently, usually on a per-project basis.

  • The freelance writer submitted her article ahead of the deadline.
  • I hired a freelancer to design my website.
consultants

This term is appropriate when discussing professionals who provide expert advice in a particular area. Consultants are usually hired for their expertise and do not typically perform the actual work but rather guide and advise.

  • We brought in a marketing consultant to help boost our sales.
  • The company hired a management consultant to restructure its operations.
service providers

This term is a broad category that includes any business or individual offering services. It can apply to various industries such as IT, financial services, or healthcare.

  • We switched internet service providers to get a better deal.
  • Our new service provider has excellent customer support.

Examples of usage

  • The marketing contractor helped the company with their social media campaign.
  • Our company hires contractors for IT support services.
  • The contractor is responsible for delivering the project on time.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The concept of contractors dates back to ancient civilizations, where builders and artisans worked on projects by entering into agreements.
  • In medieval Europe, craftsmen would form guilds, acting like contractors by agreeing on quality and payment for their work.
  • The use of contractors became more formalized during the Industrial Revolution, as large construction projects required organized labor.

Economics

  • Contractors play a significant role in the economy by creating jobs and fostering entrepreneurship.
  • The contracting industry has grown significantly with the rise of the gig economy, offering flexible work arrangements.
  • Construction contracting contributes heavily to the GDP in various countries, reflecting investment in infrastructure and real estate.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often feature contractors as key characters, showcasing their skills in action-packed remodeling scenes or renovations.
  • Television shows like 'Fixer Upper' popularize contractors by highlighting home renovation adventures, making it a trendy profession.
  • Comics and superhero media sometimes have characters that are contractors, using their construction abilities to save the day with creative builds.

Legal Aspects

  • Contractors often operate under strict guidelines and require licenses, ensuring they meet quality and safety standards.
  • Many legal cases arise around contractor agreements, emphasizing the importance of clear contracts to protect both parties.
  • Different countries have varying laws that regulate contractor practices, reflecting local construction practices and economic conditions.

Technology

  • The advent of technology has transformed the contractor industry, with tools like project management software streamlining operations.
  • Drones and AI are increasingly utilized in construction projects, making contractors' jobs more efficient and broadening their capabilities.
  • Virtual reality is becoming popular for contractors as a way to showcase designs and walkthroughs to clients before building begins.

Origin of 'contractors'

The term 'contractors' originated from the Latin word 'contractor,' which means 'one who contracts or undertakes.' The concept of hiring individuals or companies to perform specific tasks can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where skilled workers were employed for various projects. In modern times, contractors play a crucial role in the construction industry and business world, providing specialized services and expertise.

See also: contract, contracted, contractible, contracting, contraction, contractions, contractor, contracts, contractual, subcontract, subcontracting.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,373, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.