contain - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
contain Word Meanings
- to have something inside
- to hold or include
- to restrain or limit
contain Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
contain Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈteɪn/
US
/kənˈteɪn/
contain Word Etymology
con- = with/together, tain = hold; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a container that holds everything together, like a bag full of treasures.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I cup my hands and set a marble into a small jar, guiding the lid to close. As the lid presses down, the marble settles inside and the space around it feels ready to hold it. The move from loose air to a held space makes me feel careful and in control. Later, I use the same pattern with everyday items, placing documents in a folder so nothing spills.
Real Context
Contain means to have something inside, to hold or include, and to restrain or limit. Etymology: con- = with/together, tain = hold; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a container that holds everything together, like a bag full of treasures. Use contain for physical objects (a box contains toys), for information within a larger text (the report contains several chapters), and for keeping emotions or trends within bounds (to contain a riot). Learners often confuse contain with include (which lists items) or with hold (more about gripping physically) or with limit (a stricter sense of restraint).
Usage Reminders
- Use contain for inside/inside boundaries; avoid using contain to mean simply 'list'; distinguish from include and hold; beware collocations like 'contain costs' and 'contain one's temper'; the passive is formed as be contained by; think metaphorical containment in phrases like 'contain a surge' or 'contain a crowd.'
Common Misconceptions
- Contain = include (they are different: contain is about interior boundaries, include is about listing parts)
- Contain = hold (not always; hold is about grasping physically)
- Contain = limit only physical things (can be emotional or abstract)
- Confusing be contained by with contain oneself (the former is passive)
- Using contain for 'comprise' or 'consist of' (wrong; use comprise/consist of)
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Create mental images of a container around items
- Practice physical containment with actual boxes
- Compare include vs contain in a sentence
- Use be contained by for passive situations
- Learn common collocations like contain costs
- Practice metaphorical uses (contain a crowd)
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'contain' used in a sentence?
A.The teacher fail to contain the students in the classroom.
B.I never contain to the library on Sundays.
C.The container was empty.
D.I can't contain my excitement for the upcoming concert.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is an opposite word of 'contain'?
A.Preserve
B.Increase
C.Encompass
D.Release
Step 4: Opposite Words
A real-life context where 'contain' is used is in environmental protection. How can the term be used?
A.Patients are asked to contain their medicines properly.
B.Farmers contain their livestock in a large field.
C.Scientists work to contain the spread of harmful chemicals in the ocean.
D.Tourists contain the beauty of the natural reserve.
Step 5: Mastery
Explain the meaning of 'contain' in your own words and use it in a sentence.
A.Humble
B.Delightful
C.Confused
D.Restrict
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