enumerate

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "enumerate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in a sentence when you want to list out specifics or items, for example: "I will enumerate the reasons why I think summer is the best season."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He points out that the Washington Post once described it as "Rockwell meets de Tocqueville" – a more pithy line than one usually reads in the Post these days – and goes on to enumerate Danville's charms: On my travels I saw one of those poles in the historic district detailing an important event, namely the first removal of an ovarian tumour in the world, weighing 22lbs.

The Guardian

Duke University's Centre for the Study of the Public Domain celebrates Public Domain Day annually to enumerate which works would have, under previous regulatory regimes, entered the public domain on January 1st of the year of the celebration.

The Economist

Then a single page to enumerate various colossal injuries to Afghanistan and its people.

The Economist

Two lists taped to the front windows of the administration building in Dnipropetrovsk enumerate 400 names of those missing and 800 prisoners.

The Economist

We are not aware of one reason which could induce, under the same circumstances in every respect, an extended consumption of coffee, that would not in all and every way apply to sugar; but we can enumerate many most important ways in which the consumption of sugar should be increased, not applicable to coffee.

The Economist

English-speaking officials enumerate the city's many advantages with the help of PowerPoint displays and glossy brochures.

The Economist

The survey does not enumerate crimes against businesses and it under-reports things such as drug offences where the notion of victim is vague.

The Economist

"We can enumerate in advance", he wrote, "how many individuals will stain their hands in the blood of their fellows, how many will be forgers, how many will be poisoners, almost as we can enumerate in advance the births and deaths that should occur".

The Economist

Ms Wolf's first problem is that OWS has been pretty disciplined, and pretty smart, in refusing to enumerate demands this clearly.

The Economist

It states that the views expressed in a recent House of Commons report overlook "five important realities", then fails to enumerate them.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

These files show that cabinet critics confronted Lady Thatcher and her acolytes with well-costed and fully enumerated warnings about the fiscal and political impact of the poll tax.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "enumerate", ensure you are presenting items in a clear, sequential order. This verb works best when the items you are listing are distinct and easily identifiable.

Common error

Avoid using "enumerate" when you're simply describing something without a specific list or sequence in mind. "Enumerate" implies a methodical listing, not a general overview.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "enumerate" is a transitive verb, requiring an object. It signifies the act of listing items or elements individually, often in a sequential manner. Ludwig provides examples where "enumerate" is used to specify charms, works, or advantages.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "enumerate" is a versatile verb that means to list items individually, often in a sequential order. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and the examples demonstrate its usage across diverse contexts, from news articles to philosophical texts. While suitable for general use, "enumerate" finds particular relevance in formal writing, such as academic papers and scientific reports. When using "enumerate", prioritize clarity and sequential arrangement. If you're aiming for a simple description rather than a structured listing, consider alternative verbs like "describe" or "outline".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

numerate

Synonymous with "enumerate", but less commonly used in contemporary English.

list

Focuses on providing a series of items, often in a structured format, rather than detailing each one.

itemise

Emphasizes the creation of a detailed list, often with specific attributes or values attached to each item.

detail

Highlights the act of providing specific information about each item, focusing on clarity and thoroughness.

specify

Emphasizes the precision of identifying particular items, often in a technical or formal context.

catalog

Implies the creation of an organized collection of items, often with descriptions or metadata.

recite

Focuses on the verbal act of listing items, often from memory or in a ritualistic manner.

count

Emphasizes the act of determining the number of items, often involving a numerical calculation.

number

Implies assigning a numerical value to each item in a sequence.

spell out

Focuses on explaining something in a very clear, detailed way, leaving no room for doubt or confusion.

FAQs

How do you use "enumerate" in a sentence?

Use "enumerate" when you want to list items or reasons one by one. For example, "Let me enumerate the reasons why this plan is beneficial."

What is a good synonym for "enumerate"?

A good synonym for "enumerate" is "list". Other options include "itemize", "specify", or "detail" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "enumerate" or "itemize"?

"Enumerate" and "itemize" are very similar. "Enumerate" often implies a more formal and thorough listing. "Itemize" can be used in more informal contexts.

What's the difference between "enumerate" and "summarize"?

"Enumerate" means to list items individually, while "summarize" means to give a concise overview of the main points. They serve different purposes in writing and speaking.