"The file cannot be opened because there are problems with the contents."

Anonymous
2009-12-06T19:30:50+00:00

I've been using Word 2007 for months now with no problem, and suddenly when I try to open a .docx file, it says "The file cannot be opened because there are problems with the contents."

I searched for the same error and tried whatever I found. I downloaded the service packs to see if that would work and it didn't. I tried opening the files in "open and repair," but it won't select "open and repair." When I select it, it gives me the blue loading circle in place of the usual mouse arrow, but then Office Word 2007 becomes non responsive.

I'm using Vista with the original install of Microsoft Office Word 2007, if that's relevant.

I'd be willing to try just about anything. These files include my college application essays and scholarship applications that are due this week. If anyone would like to help me overcome Murphy's Law, I'd sincerely appreciate it.

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | For home | Windows

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Anonymous
2011-06-01T10:37:39+00:00

I had the same issue and I found one possible solution: Gmail. I sent the corrupted file to my Gmail account and opened the attachment using Gmail's own viewer. First it reported "Sorry, we are unable to generate a view of the document at this time. Alternatively, you can view the plain HTML (automatically redirecting)." When you select the HTML version the file opens.

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Anonymous
2009-12-06T23:35:30+00:00

There are a number of Word recovery / repair third party tool listed on google, some of which are try before you pay

I dont suppose you had configured Word to keep a backup copy?

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  1. Anonymous
    2017-07-04T06:14:46+00:00

    I discovered a solution, using the open with repair feature in Windows 10

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  2. Anonymous
    2017-05-08T19:25:32+00:00

    I found these steps worked:

    • get the file on your PC if it isn't already
    • use Gmail to send the document as an attachment to yourself
    • click the attachment so it opens in the Google Docs previewer
    • click 'Open With Google Docs'
    • the document should open and be viewable
    • click File -> Download As -> Microsoft Word (.docx)
    • you will probably find the downloaded file is a different size than the original file
    • now use Microsoft Word to open the document you just downloaded

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  3. Anonymous
    2016-09-23T04:35:28+00:00

    this really help me. Magic tip. thanks bro.

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