Contract Crossword Clue — Meaning, Variants & How to Solve It
Crossword enthusiasts often come across the clue “Contract”, but solving it isn’t always straightforward. This is because the word contract can have multiple meanings — as a noun, a verb, or even in a figurative sense. Understanding these layers helps you find the correct answer depending on the crossword’s theme and letter count.
In this article, we decode the most common interpretations of the clue Contract, explore possible answers, and share tips to crack similar clues with ease.
Why “Contract” Is a Tricky Crossword Clue
The clue Contract can point to:
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An agreement
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The act of shrinking
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The act of obtaining (as in contracting a disease)
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A legal document
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A verb meaning to tighten muscles
Because of these varied meanings, the answer depends entirely on context and letter pattern.
Most Common Answers for “Contract” (Crossword Clue)
Below are possible answers depending on the definition intended by the setter:
1. “Agreement” / “Deal” Meaning
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PACT
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DEAL
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TREATY
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AGREEMENT
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BARGAIN
These are common in general knowledge (GK) and newspaper crosswords.
2. “Shrink” Meaning
When contract is used as a verb meaning to get smaller:
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NARROW
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TIGHTEN
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SHRINK
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DWINDLE
Often seen in cryptic crosswords.
3. “To Get / Acquire” Meaning
As in contract a disease:
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CATCH
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GET
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ACQUIRE
4. “Legal Document” Meaning
If the clue indicates the noun form:
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LEASE
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DEED
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BOND
5. “Shorten a Word” Meaning
In language-related puzzles, contract refers to making a short form:
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ABBREVIATE
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ELIDE
How to Know Which One Is Correct?
Follow these steps:
✔ Check the Number of Letters
Most crossword clues provide the letter count (e.g., 4 letters → PACT).
✔ Look at Crossing Letters
Fill in the down clues to see which letters fit.
✔ Identify the Context
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Financial/business crossword → PACT, DEAL
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Medical/biology crossword → CATCH, GET
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General English crossword → SHRINK, TIGHTEN
✔ Watch Out for Cryptic Clues
A cryptic clue for contract may hide indicators like “shrink,” “take in,” or “shorten.”
Examples of Crossword Clues & Their Answers
| Clue | Meaning | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Contract (4 letters) | Agreement | PACT |
| Contract (5 letters) | Shrink | TIGHTEN |
| Contract (5 letters) | Acquire | CATCH |
| Legal contract | Document | LEASE |
| Contract muscles | Tighten | TENSE |
Tips for Solving Ambiguous Clues
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Always consider all possible meanings of the word.
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Check whether the clue uses the noun or verb sense.
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If stuck, fill nearby clues to reveal letter patterns.
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In themed crosswords (business, health, law), narrow down meaning accordingly.