B1noun2K

Container

UK /["/kənˈteɪnə(r)/"]/US /["/kənˈteɪnər/"]/

Definition

a box, bottle, etc. in which something can be stored or transported

In simple words: A box or other object used to hold things.

Examples

  • The package arrived in a large container that was difficult to open.
  • She used a plastic container to store the leftovers from dinner.
  • In programming, a container can refer to a data structure that holds various kinds of values.
  • The shipping container was loaded onto the cargo ship.
  • A container can often help keep items organized and protected.
  • You should use a container that is airtight to preserve the food longer.
  • The software uses a container to isolate the application from others.
  • We saw various containers at the port, each filled with different goods.

Usage notes

Used in everyday contexts, 'container' fits well in both casual and professional speech. It may not be suitable for very formal writing where more specific terms like 'receptacle' might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'can' that contains food — 'can' is in 'container'.

Collocations

  • airtight
  • closed
  • sealed
  • fill
  • store something in
  • contain something
  • hold something
  • garden
  • plant
  • in a/​the container
  • container for
  • container of
  • empty
  • full
  • bulk
  • contain something
  • hold something
  • lorry
  • ship
  • port

Synonyms

  • box
  • holder
  • receptacle
  • vessel
  • case

Antonyms

  • source
  • origin
  • emptiness

Common mistakes

  • 'Container' is sometimes confused with 'content' - remember, 'container' holds things, 'content' is what is inside.
  • Some learners use 'conteneer' instead of 'container' due to phonetic similarities.
  • It's often mistakenly pluralized as 'containerss'.