shrank from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shrank from" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is avoiding or retreating from something due to fear, discomfort, or reluctance. Example: "She shrank from the idea of speaking in public, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Couples shrank from the spotlight.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr Castañeda shrank from it.

The Economist

Juliet shrank from me affrighted.

Columbia University

He shrank from the limelight.

The New York Times

Kazin shrank from political battle.

The New York Times - Books

But Governor Perry shrank from that challenge.

The New York Times

Garcia never shrank from the pressure of replacing Johnson.

The New York Times

The Times shrank from six daily sections to four.

The New Yorker

After 9 e5, however, he shrank from 9..

The New York Times - Arts

Its population shrank from 1,100 to 40.

The New York Times - Science

It decisively shrank from honoring the slain president.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shrank from", ensure that the subject is clearly defined and that the reason for avoiding something is either stated or implied. This provides context and strengthens the sentence's meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "shrank from" in highly formal or technical writing. While generally acceptable, more precise verbs like "retreated from", "eschewed", or "declined" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shrank from" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating avoidance or a retreat from something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shrank from" is a versatile verb phrase used to indicate avoidance or reluctance, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its frequency in news and media demonstrates its common usage across varied contexts. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it's essential to consider the level of formality and context when choosing this phrase over alternatives like "recoiled from" or "shied away from". Ensure clarity by clearly defining the subject and reason for avoidance, using it accurately to convey the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recoiled from

Implies a sudden, often physical, aversion or repulsion.

shied away from

Suggests a more gentle and cautious avoidance, often due to shyness or discomfort.

backed away from

Conveys a sense of retreating or withdrawing from a situation or commitment.

dodged

Implies a quick or evasive movement to avoid something unpleasant.

evaded

Suggests skillfully avoiding something, often with planning or deception.

steered clear of

Indicates a deliberate decision to avoid something or someone.

kept away from

Emphasizes maintaining a distance to prevent unwanted interaction or involvement.

declined to

Highlights a refusal or unwillingness to participate or engage.

resisted

Implies an active effort to oppose or withstand something.

withdrew from

Signifies a formal or deliberate removal from a situation or organization.

FAQs

How can I use "shrank from" in a sentence?

Use "shrank from" to indicate that someone avoided something due to fear, discomfort, or reluctance. For example, "He "shrank from" the responsibility of leading the project."

What are some alternatives to "shrank from"?

Alternatives include "recoiled from", "shied away from", or "backed away from", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "shrink from" or "shrank from"?

"Shrank from" is the past tense of "shrink from", so use "shrank from" when describing something that happened in the past. "Shrink from" is used in present tense or general statements.

What is the difference between "shrank from" and "withdrew from"?

"Shrank from" often implies an emotional or psychological aversion, while "withdrew from" suggests a more deliberate and often physical removal or disengagement.