Contenait (en. Contained)
/kɔ̃t(ə)ˈnɛ/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
verb
To hold something inside.
The box contained toys.
La boîte contenait des jouets.
To have a certain volume or capacity.
The tank contained enough water for the whole day.
Le réservoir contenait assez d'eau pour toute la journée.
To hold information or ideas.
This book contained fascinating secrets.
Ce livre contenait des secrets fascinants.
Etymology
From the Latin verb 'continere', meaning 'to hold together'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to contain a secret
To hold information that one does not want to disclose.
contenir un secret
contained in
Included in something.
contenu dans
to hold oneself back
To prevent oneself from showing emotions.
se contenir
Related Words
to contain
Verb meaning to have something inside.
contenir
content
That which is enclosed in something.
contenu
capacity
Volume or capacity of a container.
contenance
Slang Meanings
To keep inside oneself.
He contained his emotions during the discussion.
Il contenait ses émotions lors de la discussion.
To have under control.
She contained the chaos in her life.
Elle contenait le chaos dans sa vie.