self contained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "self contained" is correct and usable in written English, although it is typically written as "self-contained" with a hyphen.
You can use it to describe something that is complete in itself and does not require external support or resources. Example: "The self-contained unit can operate independently without any additional equipment."

✓ Grammatically correct

TechCrunch

The New Yorker

The New York Times

The Guardian

The Economist

Sports Medicine

Asia-Pacific Science Education

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Huffington Post

Vice

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Forbes

BBC

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Also, the device is fairly small and self contained.

TechCrunch

The Conductor: A "Self contained wireless music system".

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Islands are self-contained.

The New Yorker

She contains multitudes, and remains self-contained.

The New York Times - Arts

Telecommunications was self-contained.

The Economist

Encryption is self-contained.

The Guardian - Tech

It was self-contained".

The Guardian

They're self-contained.

The New York Times

He is self-contained.

The New York Times - Magazine

She is self-contained, quiet.

The Guardian - Film

They are too self-contained.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing systems or units, ensure that "self contained" accurately reflects their independence from external resources or support. For example, a "self contained" apartment has all necessary facilities within it.

Common error

Avoid using "self contained" merely to sound sophisticated. Ensure it genuinely signifies independence or completeness. Overusing it in contexts where it doesn't add specific meaning can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self contained" primarily functions as a compound adjective. It modifies nouns to describe entities that are complete, independent, and do not require external support. Ludwig provides examples such as "self contained wireless music system" and "self contained flats".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Tech

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Arts

5%

Travel

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "self contained" serves as a compound adjective that emphasizes independence and completeness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and demonstrates its usage across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and technology. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to use it accurately to convey a true sense of autonomy or completeness. Alternatives like "independent" or "self-sufficient" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

independent

Focuses on autonomy and lack of reliance on external factors.

self sufficient

Emphasizes the ability to provide for oneself without needing assistance.

autonomous

Highlights the capacity for self-governance and decision-making.

self reliant

Stresses the dependence on one's own capabilities and resources.

stand alone

Implies the capability to function without being connected to something else.

self governing

Emphasizes the ability to control and manage oneself or itself.

all inclusive

Indicates completeness and the inclusion of everything necessary.

self sustaining

Highlights the ability to maintain itself over time without external input.

self operating

Emphasizes the ability to operate without external control.

self powered

Highlights that the device or system requires no external source of power to operate.

FAQs

How to use "self contained" in a sentence?

You can use "self contained" to describe something that is complete in itself and does not require external support or resources. For example, "The emergency kit is "self contained", including all necessary supplies."

What can I say instead of "self contained"?

You can use alternatives like "independent", "self sufficient", or "autonomous" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "self contained" or "self-contained"?

While both forms are used, "self-contained" with a hyphen is generally considered the correct and more common form in written English.

What's the difference between "self contained" and "self reliant"?

"Self contained" emphasizes completeness and independence from external resources, while "self reliant" focuses on the ability to depend on one's own capabilities and efforts.