crossword clue contract – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Your ultimate resource for solving the clue "contract". Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just looking for a quick verification, we provide all possible answers and clear explanations to help you complete your crossword with confidence.
Solutions for "crossword clue contract" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DEAL: A formal agreement or transaction, often business-related.
PACT: A formal agreement, covenant, or treaty, especially between individuals or parties.
5 Letters
AGREE: To come to a mutual understanding or arrangement; to consent to something.
6 Letters
ACCORD: An agreement or harmony, often used in a formal sense or for an official agreement.
SHRINK: To become smaller in size or amount, or to draw together, directly relating to the verb meaning of 'contract'.
7 Letters
BARGAIN: An agreement between parties fixing obligations of each, especially one in trade or commerce.
8 Letters
COVENANT: A formal, solemn, and binding agreement, often used in legal or religious contexts.
More About "crossword clue contract"
The word "contract" is a versatile clue in crosswords, often appearing in its noun form (a formal agreement) or its verb form (to shrink or become smaller). This duality makes it a favorite among crossword setters for its ability to mislead or challenge solvers. Understanding both primary meanings is crucial for successfully tackling this clue.
When "contract" refers to an agreement, common answers include synonyms like DEAL, PACT, or ACCORD. These answers typically fit when the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme suggests legal, business, or interpersonal understandings. Conversely, when "contract" implies reduction in size, words like SHRINK are apt. Pay close attention to the number of letters and any intersecting words to determine which meaning is intended.
Mastering such dual-meaning words is a hallmark of advanced crossword solving. It trains your brain to think flexibly and consider multiple semantic paths for a single word, enhancing your linguistic agility.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the required number of letters. This immediately narrows down the possibilities, as seen with "contract" having answers from 4 to 8 letters.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "contract," always brainstorm both the most common meaning (agreement) and less common or secondary meanings (shrink, acquire a disease).
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Use letters filled in from other clues to confirm or eliminate potential answers. If you have an 'H' in the sixth position, 'SHRINK' (6 letters) becomes a very strong candidate.
- Think About Word Type: Is the clue a noun, verb, or adjective? "Contract" can be both a noun and a verb, which guides your search for the correct part of speech in the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'contract' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'contract' most commonly refers to a formal agreement or a deal. However, it can also mean to shrink or to reduce in size, requiring solvers to consider both semantic fields.
Why are there multiple answers for the clue 'contract'?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because words can have synonyms, different word lengths, or various interpretations depending on the specific puzzle's theme or setter's style. 'Contract' itself has several meanings, leading to diverse solutions.
How can I distinguish between 'agreement' and 'shrinking' meanings for 'contract'?
Context is key! Look at the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other clues. If the clue hints at size reduction (e.g., 'to lessen,' 'to get smaller'), think 'SHRINK'. If it implies a deal or pact, answers like 'DEAL,' 'PACT,' or 'AGREE' are more likely.