to enclose

USAGE SUMMARY

"to enclose" is a valid phrase in written English.
It can be used as a verb, meaning to surround, contain, or include something within boundaries or barriers. It can also be used as an adjective, describing something that is closed or sealed off. Example: Please make sure to enclose all necessary documents with your application. In this sentence, "to enclose" is used as a verb, indicating that the action of enclosing is required in the application process. Example: The letter came in a sealed envelope, with the words "Private and Confidential" enclosed on the front. In this sentence, "enclosed" is used as an adjective, describing the envelope as being closed, sealed, or contained.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Fold dough over to enclose.

The New York Times - Food

Bring the wrap around each and twist together to enclose.

The New York Times - Magazine

The next logical step was to enclose the bed.

The New York Times

Continue rolling to enclose filling and make a roll.

The New York Times

Roll wrapper, folding in sides to enclose potatoes.

The New York Times - Food

Put butter in a pot or skillet deep enough to enclose the chicken.

The New York Times

She ends up losing her contract because she refuses to enclose her chicken houses completely.

The New York Times

Fold ends of bacon strips over pheasant breast to enclose it completely, with no overlap.

The New York Times - Food

4. Brush edges with water, and fold dough over to enclose the pumpkin.

The New York Times - Food

Another architect was talking about what material to use in order to enclose each platform.

The New Yorker

Bring the wrap around the ice cream and twist the ends together to enclose.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to enclose" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you mean to surround, include, or insert something. Choose the verb that most precisely reflects your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "to enclose" in overly abstract contexts where a more suitable verb like "to include", "to incorporate", or "to address" would be more appropriate. "To enclose" typically implies a physical boundary or container.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to enclose" is as an infinitive verb. It indicates an action of surrounding, containing, or including something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears in various contexts, ranging from physical containment to inclusion of documents.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

27%

Wiki

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to enclose" is a versatile infinitive verb with the primary function of indicating the action of surrounding, containing, or including something. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts, ranging from physical containment to the inclusion of documents, showcasing its versatility. The phrase maintains a generally neutral register, making it suitable for a broad range of writing styles. As demonstrated by the usage patterns, it's most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When using "to enclose", ensure the context clearly defines the intended meaning, and avoid using it in overly abstract contexts where a more suitable verb might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to surround

Focuses on the action of encircling or hemming in, similar to creating a boundary around something.

to contain

Focuses on the ability to hold something within a defined space.

to include

Emphasizes the act of incorporating something within a set or group.

to insert

Highlights the act of placing something within something else, typically in a confined space.

to encircle

Focuses on forming a circle around something.

to wrap

Implies covering something completely, often for protection or concealment.

to seal

Implies closing something off completely, preventing entry or escape.

to confine

Suggests restricting something within limits or boundaries.

to envelop

Indicates covering something entirely, as if with a cloak or covering.

to box in

Informal expression meaning to trap or limit someone's movement or options.

FAQs

How is "to enclose" used in a sentence?

"To enclose" can mean to surround something, to insert something into a container, or to hold something within. For example, "Fold the dough over to enclose the filling" or "Please be sure to enclose the document with your application".

What's a synonym for "to enclose"?

Synonyms for "to enclose" include "to surround", "to include", "to contain", "to wrap" or "to insert" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "to enclose" instead of "to include"?

"To enclose" is best used when referring to physically surrounding or inserting something, while "to include" is more appropriate when referring to adding something to a list or group without physical containment.

Is "to enclose" formal or informal?

"To enclose" is neither strictly formal nor informal; it is a neutral term appropriate for various contexts. However, the specific context of its use may lean towards formality, such as in business correspondence when referring to enclosing documents.