contener
“contener” means “to contain” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to containAlso: 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.
Word Connections
to restrainAlso: 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.
Word Connections
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "contener" in Spanish:
✏️ 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.