What are the definitions of “shrink from”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To avoid or hesitate to do something because of fear or uncertainty.
Anne didn’t shrink from the difficult issues facing parents.
- 2To hesitate or avoid doing something because of fear or reluctance.
He shrank from telling his secrets to anyone.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “shrink from”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb shrink from is to avoid or hesitate to do something because of fear, uncertainty, or reluctance. It means that someone is not willing to face a challenge or situation due to their feelings of fear or doubt.
What are the different verb forms of “shrink from”?
| Root Verb | shrink from |
| Third Person Singular Present | shrinks from |
| Present Participle | shrinking from |
| Simple Past | shrank from |
| Past Participle | shrunk from |
Example
She shrinks from confronting her boss about the issue.
Example
He shrinks from taking responsibility for his actions.
Example
They are shrinking from making a decision in this difficult situation.
Example
She shrank from telling her parents the truth.
Example
He had shrunk from facing his fears in the past.
What kind of phrasal verb is “shrink from”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“shrink from” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She shrank from the challenge.
Example
He shrinks from confrontation.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“shrink from” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She shrank from the challenge.
Example
He shrinks from confrontation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “shrink from”?
To avoid taking responsibility for one's actions or decisions.
Example
He always shrinks from responsibility when things go wrong.
Good things to know
Does “shrink from” have an informal or formal tone?
Shrink from is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic writing or professional discussions.
