Words / B1

k-uh-n-TAYN/kənˈteɪn/

Contain means have inside: this bottle contains one litre; the file contains errors. Include is about being part of a list; consist of names all the parts. Container is the box or bottle; contents is the noun: the contents of the bag. Contain your anger means control it; cannot contain herself means cannot hide a feeling.

Meaning

To have something inside, or to include something.

Examples

• “This bottle contains one litre of water.”
• “The box contains twenty copies.”
• “Does this product contain nuts?”

Good to know

contain + object. List: include. All parts: consist of. Noun: contents. Control a feeling: contain.

Near in meaning

include

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