What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
have
Example
I have a car. [have: verb]
Example
She has a headache. [has: verb]
Example
They have been studying for hours. [have: auxiliary verb]
contain
Example
The bottle contains water. [contains: verb]
Example
The box can contain up to ten books. [contain: verb]
Example
The report contains several recommendations. [contains: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Have is much more common than contain in everyday language. Have is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while contain is more technical and specific.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between have and contain?
Contain is generally considered more formal and technical than have. It is often used in academic or professional settings, while have can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
