"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
    2013-06-05T00:41:06+00:00

    I just resetted my win 8 and office 2010, then I got the message too when I opened ms word. Microsoft seems do nothing to tackle this problem before they relesed win 8. Oh God!

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  2. Anonymous
    2013-05-30T16:07:22+00:00

    I would like to add another solution that at least worked for me in Word 2010.

    Right-click on the corrupted file and open it with WordPad.

    You can then copy its content and paste it to a new word file.

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  3. Anonymous
    2013-03-05T23:22:32+00:00

    You sir Have just saved me 20 hours worth of work. I was due in 5 hours when My file Corrupted. I love you

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