capable of containing anything

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capable of containing anything" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an object, container, or concept that has the ability to hold or include a wide variety of items or ideas. Example: "The new storage system is capable of containing anything from small tools to large equipment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It was "the voice you can say anything in … infinite, always changing, endlessly responsive, and capable of containing anything, and everything".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is capable of containing as much information as a personal computer did two or three years ago.

The New York Times

• A medical apparatus at least capable of containing global contagions.

Forbes

It's portable, durable, interactive, searchable, current and capable of containing even richer content.

TechCrunch

SS: I think our bodies are only capable of containing certain vessels of alcohol.

Huffington Post

A contract between General Electric and software company GMI stipulates that GMI's products won't contain anything capable of damaging the software or GE's computers, networks, or data.

Harvard Business Review

None of its grandiose pavilions still contain anything worth seeing.

The Guardian - Arts

Instead of being afraid of not capable of doing anything, take action, master your mind.

WikiHow

One may of course disagree with the moral philosophy contained in the novel, but to suggest that the book is so vague as to be capable of justifying anything is disingenuous.

Huffington Post

They're capable of doing anything.

The New York Times

I'm capable of forgetting anything, anytime.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts or systems, use "capable of containing anything" to convey adaptability and inclusivity. For example, "A robust philosophical framework should be capable of containing anything from logical arguments to emotional experiences."

Common error

Avoid using "capable of containing anything" when a more specific description of capacity is possible. Overgeneralization can weaken your statement. Instead of saying "the database is capable of containing anything", specify the types and volume of data it can handle.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capable of containing anything" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the potential or ability of something to hold or include anything, emphasizing its capacity or adaptability. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capable of containing anything" is a grammatically sound adjective phrase used to highlight the boundless capacity of a subject. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, this phrase is infrequently used. The primary context for this phrase is found in news and media. When using this phrase, consider whether a more specific and descriptive alternative might better suit your purpose. Bear in mind that overgeneralization can weaken the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

able to hold anything

Replaces "capable of" with the more straightforward "able to", keeping the rest of the phrase the same.

able to contain everything

Substitutes "anything" with "everything", slightly broadening the scope of the container's capacity.

can hold anything

Uses "can" instead of "capable of" for a more informal tone.

with the ability to contain anything

Adds "with the ability" to rephrase the capacity aspect, making it more descriptive.

has the capacity to contain everything

Emphasizes the "capacity" aspect, making the statement more formal.

designed to hold any content

Shifts the focus to the design aspect and introduces the term "content".

equipped to hold any item

Focuses on the equipment aspect, suggesting that the subject is specially prepared.

large enough to contain everything

Adds a size dimension, implying that the capacity is related to physical size.

suitable for any contents

Replaces "contain" with "suitable for", focusing on suitability rather than containment.

all-encompassing

Uses a single adjective to describe the capability of holding anything, making it concise.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "capable of containing anything" for variety?

Consider alternatives such as "able to hold anything", "can hold anything", or "designed to hold any content" depending on the specific context.

Is "capable of containing anything" too broad of a statement?

While grammatically correct, "capable of containing anything" can be vague. Consider providing more specific details about what the subject can contain to strengthen your writing. Precision often enhances clarity.

In what contexts is "capable of containing anything" most appropriate?

This phrase is suitable when describing systems, frameworks, or abstract concepts designed for wide applicability. It suggests adaptability and inclusivity, making it fitting for discussions of philosophical theories or data storage solutions.

What's the difference between "capable of containing anything" and "all-encompassing"?

"Capable of containing anything" describes a potential or designed ability to include a wide range of items or concepts, while "all-encompassing" suggests that something already includes everything relevant. The former implies potential; the latter, actuality.