Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
contracting
The term operates across several distinct registers. In a legal or business context, it refers to the formal process of establishing binding agreements. When used as a noun (e.g., government contracting), it describes a specific professional industry based on project-based work rather than permanent employment.
In medical contexts, "contracting" is a formal term for acquiring an illness. While "catching a cold" is common in casual conversation, "contracting a virus" or "contracting an infection" is the standard terminology in clinical or official reports.
Physically, the word describes a reduction in size or tension. In biology, it specifically refers to the tightening of muscle fibers. In physics, it describes the effect of temperature or pressure on matter.
Economically, as an adjective, it describes a trend of decline. A "contracting economy" is a technical term used in finance and sociology to describe a period of negative growth, often associated with a recession.
Meanings
The business or practice of providing goods or services under a contract, typically as an external provider.
Entering into a formal and legally binding agreement or arrangement with another party.
Examples
He decided to leave his full time job and try his hand at government contracting.
The company is struggling to survive in a contracting market.
I wonder if they are contracting with a new supplier for the project.
Be careful not to spend too much time in the crowded area, as you risk contracting a virus.
The patient is contracting a rare fever that doctors cannot identify.
The muscle is contracting and relaxing in a rhythmic pattern.
The metal rod is contracting due to the extreme cold of the vacuum.
We are currently contracting our operations to focus on core services.