what it contains

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what it contains" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to the contents of something. For example: "I'm not sure what it contains, but I know it's valuable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Since the time of the "Challenger" voyage, scientists have learned much about the mechanics of the ocean, what it contains, and what lies below its surface.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She has not seen the Iraqi government's declaration to the United Nations about its weapons of mass destruction, but she is certain of what it contains.

The New York Times

What it contains is deeply uncertain.

The Guardian

What it contains is a diatribe of criticism and resentment.

The Guardian - Music

Most of what it contains is pragmatic rather than principled.

The Guardian - Opinion

Exactly what it contains remains to be decided".

The New York Times

We do not accept from you what it contains.

Yale University

"I don't know where the bottle is or what it contains, but we will retrieve it and see what it contains," Perper said in a telephone interview.

The New York Times - Sports

Another major hurdle in implementing the code is that few suppliers know what it contains.

The Guardian

Police have said the solution is "relatively mild" but have not said exactly what it contains.

The Guardian

They would tell you how your food is put together, but not what it contains.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "what it contains" to refer to the tangible items inside. For abstract concepts, consider alternatives like "what it entails" or "what it represents".

Common error

While versatile, "what it contains" can sound simplistic in formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "its composition" or "the elements within" to enhance the tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what it contains" functions as a noun clause, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to the specific items or elements included within something. It introduces detail about something's contents.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "what it contains" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to inquire about or describe the contents of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct. It is most commonly found in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in sophisticated writing. Common synonyms include "the contents of it" or "the elements within it". Remember to use this phrase to precisely describe the included elements within a given object or idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the contents of it

Focuses on the contents using a more direct noun phrase.

the elements within it

Emphasizes individual elements as opposed to a general containing.

the composition of it

Highlights the makeup or ingredients of something.

the material inside it

More literal, specifying physical material.

the items included in it

Highlights included items rather than a general containing.

the components found in it

Focuses on identifying specific components.

the substance comprising it

More formal, referring to the substance or matter.

the details within it

Highlights specific details and information.

the specifics of its makeup

Emphasizes detailed makeup and arrangement.

its essential components

Stresses core elements, making it clear that these are important.

FAQs

How can I use "what it contains" in a sentence?

You can use "what it contains" to refer to the contents of something, as in, "I'm curious about what that box contains". Alternatively, you might ask, "Do you know "what it includes"?"

What's a more formal way to say "what it contains"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "its composition", "the elements within", or "its constituent parts". These options offer a more sophisticated way to describe the contents of something.

Is it correct to say 'I don't know what contains it' instead of 'I don't know what it contains'?

No, "I don't know what contains it" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing is "I don't know "what it contains"". This is because 'what' acts as a relative pronoun and 'it' is the subject of the verb 'contains'.

Can "what it contains" refer to abstract concepts?

Yes, "what it contains" can refer to abstract concepts, but it's more commonly used for tangible items. When referring to abstract concepts, consider more appropriate alternatives such as "what it entails" or "what it represents".