What are Contractions? Definition and examples.

October 18, 2022 7:06 AM
Contractions are a form of abbreviated communication. They are often used in speech, texting, and writing. There are many different types of contractions, and they can be used in a variety of ways. This article will explore the definition, types, examples, and rules of contractions.

Definition : 

A contraction is an abbreviation of two or more words. Contractions are usually made by dropping one or more letters from the original words. For example, the contraction "don't" is an abbreviation of "do not". Contractions are often used in speech as a way to save time and effort.

Types : 

There are four main types of contractions: 

  1. Verbal
  2. Written
  3. Auxiliaries
  4. Ellipses.

  1. Verbal contractions are made by combining two words into one. 

For example, the contraction "aren't" is made by combining "are not" into "aren't".

  1. Written contractions are made by combining two words into one, and then putting a hyphen between the two words.

 For example, the contraction "won't" is made by combining "will not" into "won't".

  1. Auxiliary contractions are made by combining two words into one, and then putting an apostrophe between the two words.

 For example, the contraction "he's" is made by combining "he is" into "he's".

  1. Ellipses contractions are made by combining two words into one, and then omitting the second word. 

For example, the contraction "I'm" is made by combining "I am" into "I'm".ions are the most common type of contraction. 

They are usually made by dropping the letter "o" from the word "not". 

For example, the contraction "didn't" is an abbreviation of "did not". Verbal contractions are often used in speech as a way to save time and effort.

Rules : 

There are a number of different rules that govern the use of contractions. Here are the most important ones:

1. Contractions should only be used in informal contexts.

2. Contractions should not be used in formal writing or speech.

3. Contractions should not be used in academic writing.

4. Contractions should not be used in legal writing.

Examples : 

1. I am not

2. I will not

3. I cannot

4. I should not

5. I would not

6. I might not

7. I ought not

8. I have not

9. I had not

10. I will not have

Conclusion : 

We can conclude that the use of contractions can make writing more informal and can help to create a more personal tone.