Definitions and Examples of deflate, shrink, contract
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To release air or gas from something, causing it to become smaller.
Example
He used a needle to deflate the balloon after the party.
To become smaller in size or volume.
Example
The sweater shrunk in the wash and no longer fit him.
To become smaller or shorter in length, duration, or scope.
Example
The company had to contract its operations due to financial difficulties.
Key Differences: deflate vs shrink vs contract
- 1Deflate is used specifically for releasing air or gas from something, while shrink and contract can refer to any decrease in size or volume.
- 2Shrink is more commonly used for physical objects, while contract can also refer to a decrease in duration or scope.
- 3Contract can also have a positive connotation, such as when a business expands its operations and then contracts them to focus on core activities.
Effective Usage of deflate, shrink, contract
- 1Economics: Use deflate to describe a decrease in prices or economic activity.
- 2Physical Objects: Use shrink to describe a decrease in size or volume of physical objects.
- 3Business: Use contract to describe a decrease in business operations or scope.
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Remember this!
The antonyms of bubble are deflate, shrink, and contract. These words convey the opposite meaning of bubble, which is to decrease in size or volume. Use deflate for releasing air or gas, shrink for physical objects, and contract for business operations or scope.
