Definitions and Examples of cower, cringe, shrink
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To shrink or cringe in fear; to show submission or timidity.
Example
The dog started barking, causing the cat to cower in fear.
cringe
To feel embarrassed, ashamed, or disgusted; to shrink back in fear or revulsion.
Example
She couldn't help but cringe when she saw her old high school yearbook photo.
To draw back or retreat in fear or apprehension; to become smaller in size or amount.
Example
The company had to shrink its workforce due to the economic downturn.
Key Differences: cower vs cringe vs shrink
- 1Cower implies a physical reaction to fear, while cringe is more of an emotional response.
- 2Cringe can also be used to describe a reaction to something unpleasant or embarrassing, while shrink refers more to a physical reduction in size or quantity.
Effective Usage of cower, cringe, shrink
- 1Enhance Vocabulary: Use these antonyms to expand your vocabulary and express different emotions.
- 2Improve Writing: Incorporate antonyms in your writing to create more vivid descriptions and characters.
- 3Enrich Reading: Look for these antonyms in books and articles to better understand the context and meaning of the text.
Remember this!
The antonyms have distinct nuances: Cower implies a physical reaction to fear, cringe is more of an emotional response, and shrink refers more to a physical reduction in size or quantity. Use these words to enhance your vocabulary, improve your writing, and enrich your reading experience.
