When learning English, it’s pretty common to get mixed up with words that sound alike. Have you ever caught yourself wondering if it’s containes or contains? They sound so similar, don’t they? Let’s get to the bottom of this and clear up any confusion.
The correct form is contains. “Containes” is not a recognized word in English. The verb “contains” is used to indicate that something includes or holds something else within it. For example, “The box contains books” means that there are books inside the box.
Always use “contains” when referring to the contents of something. Remember, using the right form of a word helps in clear communication. Incorrect usage can confuse the reader or listener about what you mean.
Understanding the Basics
To start, it’s important to know the word "contain." It means to hold something or have something within. A bottle contains water, a book contains pages. Now, we’re considering the third person singular form of "contain" when used with he, she, it, or a singular noun.
Breaking Down ‘Contains’
Contains is the correct form. Why? Because it agrees with a third-person singular subject. Think of it like this: just as we say "he runs," "she jumps," and "it shows," we should say "it contains."
Let me give you a few examples:
- The glass contains water.
- This story contains many characters.
- Her response contains a few errors.
Why Not ‘Containes’?
On the other hand, "containes" isn’t a recognized form in English. It might look right if you’re used to verbs that end in "es" in the third person, like "passes" or "dresses." However, "contain" doesn’t follow this rule. Are you wondering why English can be so tricky with these exceptions? You’re not alone! It all comes down to how the verb ends and how it sounds with added letters. "Contain" sounds complete with just an "s."
To make it simple, here’s a rule of thumb: when deciding, try replacing "contain" with a simpler verb you know well, like "run." If "he run" sounds wrong to you, and "he runs" sounds right, then you’ll know that "it contains" is also correct.
Making It Stick
Here are some tricks to remember the right choice:
1. **The Singular S** – Think of how adding “s” connects the verb to a singular subject. It’s a handy little link!
2. **Similar Words** – Pair “contains” with other verbs that end similarly and follow the rule, like “remains” or “explains.” They stick together.
Seeing It in Action
Let’s put “contains” into some everyday situations. Imagine you have a bottle of juice. You wouldn’t say, “This bottle containes juice”; you’d say, “This bottle **contains** juice.” Here’s why:
– “This bottle” is a singular subject, so the verb needs an “s” to match.
– It sounds smoother and is easier to say. Try saying both out loud, which one flows better?
Practice Makes Perfect
Why not try making a few sentences yourself? Take any object near you, like a pen, a cup, or even your smartphone, and write a sentence using “contains.” For example:
– My pen **contains** blue ink.
– This smartphone **contains** a lot of data.
See how many sentences you can come up with. It might seem a bit silly, or you may wonder, “Do I really need to do this?” But trust me, the more you practice, the better you’ll remember.
A Quick Reminder
Anytime you’re writing or speaking and you find yourself stuck between “containes” and “contains,” just remember the singular “s” rule. Choose “contains” to keep your English clear and correct.
Let’s be honest, English can sometimes confuse even the best of us with its odd rules and exceptions. But don’t let it discourage you. Understanding one word better today than you did yesterday is still progress. Keep practicing, keep questioning, and soon, choosing the right words will become second nature>
