"that contains" vs "which contains"

Question

"that contains" vs "which contains"

Both 'which contains' and 'that contains' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Which contains' is used in non-restrictive relative clauses, providing additional information about the noun it refers to. 'That contains' is used in restrictive relative clauses, specifying essential information about the noun. The choice between them depends on the type of relative clause being used.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

Use 'that contains' in restrictive relative clauses to provide essential information about the noun. It is not set off by commas.

Examples:

The box that contains the jewelry is on the table.
I need the book that contains the information.

Alternatives:

which contains
which has
which includes
that includes
that has

Use 'which contains' in non-restrictive relative clauses to provide additional, non-essential information about the noun. It is set off by commas.

Examples:

The book, which contains many illustrations, is on the shelf.
The house, which contains three bedrooms, is for sale.

Alternatives:

which includes
which features
which has
that includes
that features

Answer 1

that contains

This phrase is correct and commonly used in restrictive relative clauses.

Answer 2

which contains

This phrase is correct and commonly used in non-restrictive relative clauses.

"that contains" vs "which contains"

that contains

which contains

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