contain a subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contain a subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing grammar, sentence structure, or the components of a statement. Example: "Every complete sentence must contain a subject to convey a clear meaning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Splice Girls, and Boys "Comma splice" is a term used for the linking of two independent clauses — that is, grammatical units that contain a subject and a verb and could stand alone as sentences — with a comma.

The New York Times

"Comma splice" is a term used for the linking of two independent clauses -- that is, grammatical units that contain a subject and a verb and could stand alone as sentences -- with a comma.

The New York Times

A clause is a group of words that contain a subject and a verb - for example: She ate.

BBC

According to Aristotle, every such sentence must have the same structure: it must contain a subject (hupokeimenon) and a predicate and must either affirm or deny the predicate of the subject.

SEP

The first slot must contain a subject and object, a main form of a verb, an adverb or a conjunction (except for the light conjunctions a, "and", i, "and even" or ale, "but").

Wikipedia

The RRA should contain a Subject Matter Specialist Knowledgeable not only of the principal production systems, but also conversant with the cultural and socio-economic conditions of the area.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A clause is a group of words containing a subject and a verb.

BBC

Every grammatically correct English sentence contains a subject and a predicate.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

They can be used to join 2 or more sentences or clauses (a clause is a group of words which contains a subject and a verb).

BBC

The comma marks out a clause – or grammatical unit containing a subject and a verb – as well as telling the reader to pause briefly.

BBC

The system contains a subject identification module unit which uses RFID tags to identify and discriminate an authorized user from others.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sentence structure, ensure that the verb accurately reflects the relationship between the subject and other elements. For example, use “contain” when you want to show the subject as an integral part of the whole.

Common error

Avoid using "contain a subject" repetitively in formal writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "include", "feature", or restructuring the sentence for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contain a subject" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the composition or essential elements of a sentence, clause, or other grammatical unit. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "contain a subject" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe the essential components of a sentence or clause. Ludwig AI indicates that it's usable in various contexts. While its register ranges from neutral to formal, it is frequently seen in scientific, news, and wiki sources. When writing, while "contain a subject" can be appropriate, it's also helpful to know similar phrases to express the same idea such as "include a subject" or "have a subject", and to avoid overuse, particularly in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

include a subject

Replaces "contain" with "include", maintaining the meaning of encompassing a subject.

have a subject

Substitutes "contain" with "have", focusing on possession rather than inclusion.

incorporate a subject

Uses "incorporate" to emphasize the integration of a subject into a larger whole.

comprise a subject

Employs "comprise" to indicate that the subject is a component part.

encompass a subject

Replaces "contain" with "encompass", suggesting a broader inclusion.

feature a subject

Uses "feature" to highlight the subject as a prominent element.

consist of a subject

Changes the structure to emphasize that the whole is made up of the subject.

hold a subject

Substitutes "contain" with "hold", suggesting the phrase maintains or possesses the subject

embody a subject

Uses "embody" to indicate that the subject is represented or expressed.

present a subject

Replaces "contain" with "present", focusing on the act of showing or introducing the subject.

FAQs

How can I use "contain a subject" in a sentence?

You can use "contain a subject" to describe the essential components of a clause or sentence. For instance, "Every grammatically correct sentence must "contain a subject" and a predicate".

What can I say instead of "contain a subject"?

You can use alternatives like "include a subject", "have a subject", or "incorporate a subject" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary for a clause to "contain a subject"?

In most cases, yes. A clause typically requires a subject and a verb to form a complete thought. However, there are exceptions, such as imperative sentences where the subject is implied.

What is the difference between "contain a subject" and "feature a subject"?

"Contain a subject" simply means that a subject is present. "Feature a subject" implies that the subject is a prominent or important element.