shrink from

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Word: Shrink from

Definition: "Shrink from" is a verb phrase that means to avoid doing something, especially because you feel afraid, uncomfortable, or unwilling. It often implies a sense of cowardice or hesitation in facing a challenge.

Usage Instructions:

• "Shrink from" is often used when someone is reluctant to confront a difficult situation, responsibility, or challenge.
• It can be followed by a noun or a gerund (verb ending in -ing).

Example:

• "She did not shrink from the challenge of leading the project, even though it was difficult."
• "He shrank from making the tough decision that everyone expected him to make."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or formal writing, "shrink from" might be used to describe a character's internal struggle or moral dilemma. For example, "The hero did not shrink from the truth, no matter how painful it was."

Word Variants:

• Shrink (verb): To become smaller or to withdraw.
• Shrinking (verb): The act of becoming smaller or withdrawing.
• Shrank (past tense): The past form of shrink.

Different Meanings:

• Besides its figurative use, "shrink" can also literally mean to make something smaller in size, like a piece of clothing that shrinks in the wash.

Synonyms:

• Avoid
• Evade
• Recoil from
• Hesitate
• Shy away from

Idioms:

• "Bite the bullet": To face a difficult situation bravely, opposite of shrinking from it.

Related Phrasal Verbs:

• Shirk (verb): To avoid or neglect a duty or responsibility.
  • Example: "He chose to shirk his responsibilities instead of facing them."

Summary:

To "shrink from" something means to avoid it due to fear or reluctance. It often suggests that a person is not ready to confront a difficult situation.

Academic

Verb

1. avoid (one's assigned duties)
   • The derelict soldier shirked his duties

Synonyms

• fiddle
• shirk
• goldbrick