"should contain" vs "should be contained"

Question

"should contain" vs "should be contained"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Should be contained' is used when referring to something that needs to be enclosed or enclosed within something else. 'Should contain' is used when indicating what something must include or have inside.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

This phrase is used when specifying what something must have inside. For example, 'The recipe should contain a pinch of salt.'

Examples:

The report should contain all the necessary information.
The box should contain the missing items.
The contract should contain the terms and conditions.
The bag should contain your personal belongings.
The plan should contain detailed instructions.

Alternatives:

should include
should have
should feature
should incorporate
should encompass

This phrase is used when talking about something that should be enclosed or included within something else. For example, 'The hazardous materials should be contained in a secure area.'

Examples:

The fire should be contained to prevent it from spreading.
The virus should be contained to avoid further contamination.
The noise should be contained within the soundproof room.
The information should be contained in a confidential report.
The excitement should be contained until the surprise is revealed.

Alternatives:

should be enclosed
should be confined
should be restricted
should be limited
should be kept within

Answer 1

should contain

This phrase is correct and commonly used when indicating what something must include or have inside.

Answer 2

should be contained

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to something that needs to be enclosed or enclosed within something else.

"should contain" vs "should be contained"

should contain

should be contained

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