encompassing

USAGE SUMMARY

"encompassing" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that includes many different elements or components, like an encompassing plan or idea. For example, "The company's mission statement is an encompassing document that defines the company's goals, values, and overall purpose."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

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 context clearly indicates that multiple, diverse elements are being included or considered.

Common error

Avoid using "encompassing" when a simpler word like "including" or "covering" adequately conveys the meaning. "Encompassing" is most effective when highlighting broad scope or comprehensive coverage.

Linguistic Context

The term "encompassing" functions primarily as a present participle or gerund, often acting as an adjective to describe something that includes or covers a wide scope. As Ludwig AI states, it signifies inclusion of diverse elements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "encompassing" functions as a present participle or gerund, conveying comprehensiveness and broad inclusion. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct, and it's commonly used across various domains, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. While alternatives like "including" or "covering" exist, "encompassing" is best suited when emphasizing a wide scope. Remember, it's more than just including items; it signals a broad overview. Its frequent appearance in reputable sources like The Guardian and The Economist validates its reliability and usefulness in formal and informal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

including

Focuses on specific items contained within a larger set, rather than the complete coverage implied by "encompassing".

comprising

Highlights the components that make up a whole, differing from "encompassing" which stresses the inclusion of diverse elements.

consisting of

Highlights the components that make up a whole, differing from "encompassing" which stresses the inclusion of diverse elements.

covering

Implies a surface-level treatment or dealing with, while "encompassing" suggests a more thorough inclusion.

embracing

Suggests acceptance and inclusion, adding an element of welcoming that "encompassing" does not necessarily convey.

incorporating

Focuses on adding elements into a structure, differing from "encompassing" broader sense of inclusion.

integrating

Emphasizes the process of combining elements into a unified whole, unlike "encompassing" which describes the state of inclusion.

containing

Stresses the physical or abstract holding of something within limits, while "encompassing" suggests wider coverage.

encapsulating

Implies summarizing or representing something concisely, a different nuance than "encompassing" broad inclusion.

surrounding

Focuses on spatial arrangement or environment rather than comprehensive inclusion.

FAQs

How is "encompassing" used in a sentence?

The word "encompassing" is used to describe something that includes or covers a wide range of elements or aspects. For example, "The project has an "encompassing vision", covering all areas of the business."

What words can I use instead of "encompassing"?

Alternatives to "encompassing" include "including", "covering", "comprising", or "embracing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "all-encompassing"?

Yes, "all-encompassing" is a common and acceptable usage, emphasizing the complete and total inclusion of everything relevant or applicable. It suggests even greater comprehensiveness than just "encompassing".

What is the difference between "encompassing" and "encapsulating"?

"Encompassing" means including a wide range of things, while "encapsulating" means expressing the essential features of something in a concise way. For example, a summary "encapsulates the main points", whereas a comprehensive plan is "encompassing".