Encompassing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Encompassing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that includes or covers a wide range of elements or aspects. Example: "The report provides an encompassing overview of the current market trends and consumer behaviors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

The BBC is investing in the future, laying the foundations for a new, encompassing public service broadcasting as ambitious and bold as in its Reithian past.

The Guardian

Woody Allen-like, the notion became a concept, then an idea - then a national event encompassing all types of media and much of society.

The Guardian

The new party, the HDP or Peoples' Democratic party, largely representing the Kurds but also encompassing leftwing liberals, surpassed the steep 10% threshold for entering parliament to take more than 12% of the vote and around 80 seats in the 550-strong chamber.

The Guardian

Harrison and Turnbull are now designing a whole urban district for a new town in the Niger Delta to demonstrate that the Waterbank approach is viable across the rural and urban divide, encompassing climatic and construction variations.

The Guardian

It doesn't come close to encompassing the desperation of the escaper, the fear of the clandestine, the boredom of the itinerant, the lung-filled panic of the shipwrecked, the desolation of those who actually make it only to find Europe doesn't want them.

The Guardian

People turn up from all the major sites, encompassing a full spectrum of ages from 20 to 60, singles, couples and families.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Because you have to be … I'm only partially mentally ill, because I'm semi-famous!" It's that distaste for all-encompassing fame, "all the other stuff that goes with … pop music" that has kept James from collaborating with stars like Madonna.

The Guardian - Music

People in rich countries will have to be weaned off the expectation that pensions will become ever more generous and health care ever more all-encompassing.

The Economist

This song, a firm and serious statement of unconditional love and all-encompassing devotion, is a lot funnier if you imagine it sent as a text message five minutes after a first date.

The Guardian - Music

Miliband's self-destruction has been so spectacular and all-encompassing that he should bite the bullet and retire from the election.

The Guardian

Her parting shot to Monrad is all-encompassing and final: "Oh, don't stand there like a disappointed fat boy".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "encompassing", ensure the subject you're describing genuinely covers a broad scope. Avoid using it when a more specific term like "including" or "covering" would be more accurate.

Common error

Avoid using "encompassing" when a simpler word like "including" or "covering" would suffice. Overusing "encompassing" can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "encompassing" is as a present participle or gerund of the verb "encompass". It often functions as an adjective, describing something that includes a wide range of elements, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "encompassing" is a versatile verb form frequently used to indicate the inclusion of a wide range of elements or aspects. Grammatically sound and very common in writing, as supported by Ludwig, it functions primarily as a present participle or gerund. Usage contexts are predominantly in News & Media, with a neutral to formal register. While alternatives such as "including" or "covering" exist, "encompassing" is particularly useful when emphasizing breadth or scope.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Including

Focuses on specifying elements within a larger group or set, rather than the comprehensive nature of the group itself.

Covering

Emphasizes the act of extending over or dealing with a particular subject or area.

Comprising

Indicates the elements that constitute a whole, stressing composition.

Consisting of

Highlights the components that make up something, often used for definition.

Embracing

Suggests a more active and welcoming inclusion of various elements.

Incorporating

Implies the act of integrating elements into a larger structure or system.

Integrating

Focuses on combining elements so that they form a coordinated whole.

Enfolding

Suggests wrapping or enveloping something within something else.

Absorbing

Conveys the assimilation of elements, often implying a transformation.

Enveloping

Indicates surrounding or covering completely.

FAQs

How can I use "encompassing" in a sentence?

You can use "encompassing" to describe something that includes or covers a wide range of elements or aspects. For example, "The project requires an "inclusive" approach encompassing various stakeholders".

What are some alternatives to "encompassing"?

Some alternatives to "encompassing" include "including", "covering", "comprising", and "embracing". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "encompassing" or "including"?

"Encompassing" suggests a comprehensive coverage, while "including" simply indicates that certain elements are part of a larger group. Choose "encompassing" when you want to emphasize the breadth of what's being covered.

How does "encompassing" differ from "integrating"?

"Encompassing" implies including a wide range of elements, while "integrating" focuses on combining elements into a unified whole. The former is about scope, the latter is about synthesis.