Shrink from
verb
To avoid doing something because it is difficult or unpleasant.
Even though he knew it was the right thing to do, he shrank from telling her the truth.
Often appears as...
- shrink from confrontation
- shrink from the truth
verb
To show fear or hesitation in the face of something.
She did not shrink from the prospect of hard work.
Often appears as...
- shrink from fear
- shrink from danger
verb
To avoid doing something because it is difficult or unpleasant.
Even though he knew it was the right thing to do, he shrank from telling her the truth.
Often appears as...
- shrink from confrontation
- shrink from the truth
verb
To show fear or hesitation in the face of something.
She did not shrink from the prospect of hard work.
Often appears as...
- shrink from fear
- shrink from danger
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Avoidance Indication
Indicates someone is avoiding a tough action or decision often due to discomfort or reluctance.
He would shrink from making the speech, not trusting his public speaking skills.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Weight
Carries an emotional implication that the person knows the right action but is unwilling to take it.
She shrank from signing the petition, fearing social backlash.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Action
Generally reflects a negative action; not taking a necessary step can be criticized.
Despite the urgency, the committee shrank from making a decision.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoidance Indication
Indicates someone is avoiding a tough action or decision often due to discomfort or reluctance.
He would shrink from making the speech, not trusting his public speaking skills.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Weight
Carries an emotional implication that the person knows the right action but is unwilling to take it.
She shrank from signing the petition, fearing social backlash.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Action
Generally reflects a negative action; not taking a necessary step can be criticized.
Despite the urgency, the committee shrank from making a decision.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoidance Indication
Indicates someone is avoiding a tough action or decision often due to discomfort or reluctance.
He would shrink from making the speech, not trusting his public speaking skills.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Weight
Carries an emotional implication that the person knows the right action but is unwilling to take it.
She shrank from signing the petition, fearing social backlash.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Action
Generally reflects a negative action; not taking a necessary step can be criticized.
Despite the urgency, the committee shrank from making a decision.
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