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

To avoid ambiguity, especially in formal contexts, clarify what was contracted. For example, specify "I contracted malaria" instead of just "I contracted".

Common error

Avoid using "I contracted" when you mean to say "I contacted". "Contracted" implies acquiring something, while "contacted" means to get in touch with someone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I contracted" functions as a verb phrase where 'I' is the subject and 'contracted' is the past tense form of the verb 'to contract'. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to indicate the speaker's action of acquiring something, typically an illness or a formal agreement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I contracted" is a versatile expression used to describe the acquisition of an illness or the act of entering into an agreement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While alternatives like "I caught" or "I developed" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to differentiate between "contracted" and "contacted" to avoid confusion. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating its widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I caught

This alternative suggests acquiring something, often an illness, similarly to the original phrase.

I became infected with

Specifically indicates the acquisition of an infection.

I came down with

Specifically refers to becoming ill.

I developed

This alternative implies that something gradually formed or came into existence within the speaker.

I fell ill with

Focuses on the onset of illness.

I acquired

This alternative suggests obtaining or coming to possess something, be it a disease or a skill.

I was diagnosed with

This alternative indicates a formal medical identification of a condition.

I entered into a contract

Similar to "I signed an agreement", emphasizing the contractual nature.

I signed an agreement

This suggests entering into a formal arrangement or contract.

I engaged

This is broader and means engaging with some kind of professional service.

FAQs

How can I use "I contracted" in a sentence?

You can use "I contracted" to describe acquiring an illness (e.g., "I contracted the flu") or entering into an agreement (e.g., "I contracted with a company").

What can I say instead of "I contracted" when referring to an illness?

Alternatives include "I caught", "I developed", or "I became infected with", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I contracted with someone"?

Yes, it's correct to use "I contracted with someone" to indicate entering into a formal agreement or contract for services. For example: "I contracted with a builder for renovations".

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

"I contracted" means you acquired something, often an illness, or entered into an agreement. "I contacted" means you got in touch with someone. They have completely different meanings.