What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contain
Example
The jar contains cookies. [contain: verb]
Example
The policy is designed to contain the spread of the virus. [contain: verb]
Example
The article contains useful information. [contains: present tense]
restrain
Example
The police officer restrained the suspect. [restrain: verb]
Example
The doctor had to restrain the patient during the procedure. [restrain: verb]
Example
He had to restrain himself from yelling at his boss. [restrain: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contain is more commonly used in everyday language, while restrain is less common and often used in formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contain and restrain?
Restrain is more formal than contain and is often used in legal or medical contexts where precise language is necessary. Contain is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
