contract
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contract
A formal, often written and legally binding agreement between two or more parties; a synonym for agreement or contract.
Der Fußballspieler hat einen neuen Kontrakt über drei Jahre unterschrieben.
The football player signed a new three-year contract.
The word 'Kontrakt' (contract) is mainly used in certain professional fields. You hear it especially often in the context of professional sports, business, and law.
Der Boxer hat einen Kontrakt für drei weitere Kämpfe erhalten.
The boxer received a contract for three more fights.
A 'Kontrakt' (contract) is an agreement that can be actively shaped. Typical verbs are: 'abschließen' (to conclude/enter into), 'unterschreiben' (to sign), 'verlängern' (to extend), 'aushandeln' (to negotiate), or 'auflösen' (to terminate) a contract.
Nach langen Verhandlungen konnte der Kontrakt endlich abgeschlossen werden.
After long negotiations, the contract could finally be concluded.
The fixed expression 'unter Kontrakt stehen' (to be under contract) or 'jemanden unter Kontrakt nehmen' (to sign someone / put someone under contract) means that a person is legally bound by a contract. The preposition 'unter' is fixed here.
Der junge talentierte Musiker wurde von einem großen Label unter Kontrakt genommen.
The talented young musician was signed by a major label.
contract
Vertrag and Kontrakt can refer to the same formal, legally binding agreement. However, Vertrag is the neutral standard term in present-day general German, while Kontrakt sounds considerably more formal or technical. Use Vertrag in everyday situations and Kontrakt only when this formal style is appropriate.
Die beiden Firmen unterzeichneten einen Kontrakt über die Zusammenarbeit.
The two companies signed a contract for their collaboration.
Die beiden Firmen unterzeichneten einen Vertrag über die Zusammenarbeit.
The two companies signed a contract for their collaboration.
