I contracted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I contracted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of acquiring or developing a condition, illness, or agreement. Example: "After traveling abroad, I contracted a mild case of the flu."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I was 4 when I contracted polio.

The New York Times - Science

"But I contracted the aviation bug.

The New York Times

I contracted polio as a toddler.

The Guardian

I contracted malaria years ago but it's under control.

The New Yorker

In 2010, when I contracted with Shanghai Translation, I mentioned Li Xueshun's name.

The New Yorker

Although I contracted hepatitis, dengue fever and malaria, I did survive.

The New York Times

I'm not sure I contracted it, or anything, but I'm going on PEP.

The New York Times

I contracted ME following a bout of glandular fever at university and have never fully recovered.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Like Mark, who is played by John Hawkes, I contracted polio as a child.

The Guardian - Film

Six months ago I contracted for a book that was undoubtedly a sure thing.

The New Yorker

I contracted Moberg Fireplaces, who were able to construct just what I wanted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I contracted" in a medical context, be specific about the illness or condition you acquired. For example, instead of just saying "I contracted something", specify "I contracted the flu."

Common error

Be careful not to use "I contracted" in a business sense (meaning 'entered into a contract') when you intend to discuss a medical condition, and vice versa. The context should make your meaning clear, but consider rephrasing if there's potential for ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I contracted" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of acquiring something, whether it's an illness, a disease, or a formal agreement. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, confirming this active voice construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I contracted" is a versatile verb phrase commonly used to describe acquiring an illness or entering into a formal agreement. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, including news, science, and business. While "I contracted" is generally considered neutral in tone, being mindful of the context is essential to ensure clarity. Consider using alternatives like "I caught" or "I developed" for illnesses, and "I entered into an agreement" or "I signed a contract" for business arrangements. With the best practices in mind, using "I contracted" can effectively convey your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I became infected with

Focuses specifically on acquiring an infectious disease or virus.

I caught

Focuses specifically on acquiring an illness or disease.

I developed

Implies a gradual onset of a condition or illness.

I came down with

Informal way to express acquiring an illness.

I was diagnosed with

Emphasizes the medical confirmation of a disease.

I entered into an agreement

Shifts the meaning to a formal understanding or contract.

I signed a contract

More direct reference to the act of signing a formal agreement.

I secured a deal

Focuses on the successful conclusion of a business arrangement.

I undertook

Implies starting or committing to do something.

I stipulated

Means to specify as an essential condition of an agreement.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "I contracted" an illness?

For a more formal tone, you could say "I acquired" or "I developed" the illness. For example, "I acquired pneumonia" or "I developed symptoms of the flu" are both suitable alternatives to "I contracted pneumonia".

How can I rephrase "I contracted" in a business context?

In a business context, alternatives to "I contracted" include "I entered into an agreement", "I signed a contract", or "I secured a deal", depending on the specific nature of the arrangement.

What's the difference between "I contracted" and "I caught"?

"I caught" is generally used for infectious diseases that spread easily, like a cold or the flu. "I contracted" can be used for a broader range of illnesses and conditions, as well as for entering into agreements. You can also use the alternative "I became infected".

Is it correct to say "I contracted with"?

While "I contracted" can imply entering into an agreement, the phrase "I contracted with" is grammatically correct but might sound awkward. It's usually better to rephrase as "I contracted someone to do something" or "I entered into a contract with" for better clarity.