enclose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "enclose" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to including something within a boundary or limits, often in the context of documents or letters. Example: "Please enclose a copy of your identification with your application."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

[phone], chateaulesbruyeres.com Steeped in 500 years of history, the four solid wings of this distinguished chateau in Monestier enclose a grand central courtyard where water shimmers and tinkles and tiny fish flit.

The Guardian - Travel

Since even the most enthusiastic colonists would not, presumably, set up shop around every single star, and also because realistic versions of Dyson spheres would not totally enclose a star, these galaxies might indeed be the empires of individual alien species.Power-hungry aliens are not, sadly, the only explanation for the spectra Dr Griffith has found.

The Economist

Inside the museum ranks of glass cases enclose an array of coins and old bank notes, as well as the paraphernalia used to make them.

The Economist

One idea being tried in parts of Michigan and Maryland is for communities to buy farmland or environmentally sensitive land to prevent its development; another idea, practised in Oregon and Washington state, is to set an "urban growth boundary" to enclose an urban area within an inviolate green belt; a third is to offer tax inducements to communities that forgo development rights.

The Economist

But using a carefully designed stove to enclose the fire and direct heat into the pot, fuel consumption and pollution can be reduced dramatically.The problem, says Bryan Willson, a professor of mechanical engineering at Colorado State University, is that efficient use of wood requires a careful mix of fuel and air to maintain combustion at the appropriate temperature.

The Economist

Choking from the tear gas fired into the crowd, some hoisted sledgehammers to smash up the pavement in order to hurl broken slabs over improvised barricades that now enclose a makeshift camp.

The Economist

But when the honey-bush is in bloom, the skinks make a point of tearing off the tough, red petals that enclose the rest of the flower.

The Economist

In large public spaces, such as an open concourse in an airport terminal, human bodies are spread out and have little effect compared with the building materials that enclose the space, like metal and sheet rock.

The Economist

Any files those folders enclose are then silently copied to a central server for backup, web-based viewing and retrieval.

The Economist

Deep canyons enclose the river at several spots, but Mexicans can still easily cross over.

The Economist

They then enclose an area of dozens of square metres and start digging, filling the first hole with the earth from the tunnel.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "enclose" in formal writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to physical enclosure or the inclusion of documents.

Common error

Avoid using "enclose" when you simply mean "include" in a list or discussion. "Enclose" implies a physical barrier or container.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "enclose" is as a transitive verb. It describes the action of surrounding something completely or including an item within a container. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

41%

News & Media

22%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "enclose" is a versatile transitive verb with a dual meaning: to surround physically or to include something within. Ludwig AI affirms that it's used correctly in written English. Predominantly found in neutral and formal contexts like encyclopedias and news media, "enclose" is used to describe acts of containment or inclusion. When considering alternatives, it's important to think about the specific nuance you want to convey, whether it's the act of surrounding, containing, or simply including. Remembering its core meaning will ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

surround

Focuses on the action of being all around something.

contain

Highlights the capacity to hold something within.

include

Emphasizes adding something within something else.

encircle

Suggests forming a circle around something.

confine

Implies restricting something within bounds.

wrap

Focuses on covering something completely.

border

Indicates forming a boundary around something.

house

Refers to providing shelter or protection.

pen in

Suggests containing something within a small space.

box in

Implies trapping something in a confined area.

FAQs

How do you use "enclose" in a sentence?

You can use "enclose" to mean to surround something on all sides, such as "The mountains "enclose" the valley", or to include something in a package or envelope, as in "I will "enclose" the documents with this letter".

What's the difference between "enclose" and "include"?

"Enclose" usually refers to physically including something within a container or structure. "Include" is more general and can refer to adding something to a list, discussion, or set, without necessarily involving a physical container.

What can I say instead of "enclose" when referring to documents?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "include", "attach", or "insert" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "I am enclosing" or "I have enclosed"?

Both "I am enclosing" and "I have enclosed" are grammatically correct. "I am enclosing" suggests that you are currently in the process of enclosing something, while "I have enclosed" indicates that you have already done so.