contr.
Writing & Everyday abbreviation · Grammar and Dictionary
| Stands for | Contraction |
|---|---|
| Categories | Writing & Everyday |
contr. stands for Contraction, a grammar and dictionary abbreviation.
Labels a shortened form made by omitting letters or sounds, usually marked with an apostrophe, such as "can't," "it's" and "we'll." Dictionaries list contractions with their full forms.
Example: won't (contr.) will not: "The door won't open no matter how hard I push."
Usage notes
Contractions are standard in speech and informal writing; academic and legal styles traditionally avoid them, though many modern style guides accept them. "Won't" comes from Middle English "wol not." In British typography, a contraction that ends with the last letter of the full word, such as Mr or Dr, takes no period.