contener
“contener” means “to contain” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to contain
Also: to hold, to include
📝 In Action
Esta caja contiene libros viejos.
A1This box contains old books.
El refresco contiene mucho azúcar.
A2The soda contains a lot of sugar.
El documento contiene información importante.
B1The document contains important information.
to restrain
Also: to curb, to hold back
📝 In Action
No pudo contener la risa durante la clase.
B1He couldn't hold back his laughter during class.
La policía intentó contener a la multitud.
B2The police tried to restrain the crowd.
Tuve que contenerme para no gritar.
B2I had to hold myself back from shouting.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: contener
Question 1 of 2
How do you say 'I contain' in the present tense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'continere', which means 'to hold together'. It combines 'con' (together) and 'tenere' (to hold).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'contener' the same as 'incluir'?
They are very similar! 'Contener' is usually for when something is inside a physical container (like a jar), while 'incluir' is used for lists or abstract groups.
How do I remember the past tense?
Just remember 'tener'. If you know 'tuve' (I had), then 'contuve' (I contained) follows the exact same pattern.