Enclose vs Inclose: When to Opt for One Term Over Another

Are you confused about whether to use enclose or inclose? Fear not, for we are here to help you clear the air!

The proper word to use depends on the context of the sentence, but generally, enclose is the more commonly used term. Enclose means to surround or close off an area or object. In contrast, inclose means to insert into something or to confine within limits.

Throughout this article, we will explore the differences between these two words and provide examples of when to use each one.

Define Enclose

Enclose refers to the act of surrounding or confining something within a physical boundary. It can also mean to include something within a larger entity or to encircle an object with an enclosure or barrier. The term is commonly used in the context of construction, architecture, and engineering where it refers to enclosing a space or area to provide protection, privacy, or security. Enclosing can be done with various materials such as walls, fences, and gates, depending on the purpose and desired level of enclosure.

Define Inclose

Inclose is a less commonly used term that has the same meaning as enclose. It can be used interchangeably with enclose in most contexts, although it is more commonly used in legal or formal writing. The term is derived from the Latin word “inclusus,” which means “enclosed” or “shut in.” Inclose can also refer to the act of adding something to a container or enclosing something within a larger entity or system. It is important to note that inclose is not a misspelling of enclose, but rather an alternative spelling that is less commonly used.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

As a writer, it is essential to have a firm grasp of the English language. The correct usage of words is crucial in conveying the intended message to the reader. In this section, we will discuss the proper use of the words enclose and inclose.

How To Use Enclose In A Sentence

The word enclose is a verb that means to surround or close in on all sides. It can also mean to include something within a letter or package. Here are some examples of how to use enclose in a sentence:

• The garden was enclosed by a tall fence.
• Please enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope with your application.
• The letter enclosed a check for the amount owed.

Note that when using enclose to mean including something within a letter or package, it is often followed by the preposition “with” or “in.”

How To Use Inclose In A Sentence

The word inclose is a less common variant of enclose. It has the same meaning as enclose, but it is rarely used in modern English. Here is an example of how to use inclose in a sentence:

• The castle was inclosed by a high wall.

While inclose is a valid word, it is not commonly used in everyday writing or speech. It is best to stick with the more commonly used enclose to avoid confusion or sounding outdated.

More Examples Of Enclose & Inclose Used In Sentences

Here are some examples that demonstrate how “enclose” and “inclose” can be used in different contexts:

Examples Of Using Enclose In A Sentence

• The letter was enclosed in an envelope.
• The garden is enclosed by a fence.
• She enclosed a check with her application.
• The park is enclosed by a wall.
• The package was enclosed in bubble wrap.
• The document was enclosed in a folder.
• The letter was enclosed with a stamp.
• The zoo encloses the animals in habitats that mimic their natural environment.
• The architect designed the building to enclose a central courtyard.
• The company policy requires employees to enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope with their request.

Examples Of Using Inclose In A Sentence

• The garden is inclosed by a wall.
• The church is inclosed by a fence.
• The castle is inclosed by a moat.
• The town is inclosed by hills.
• The property is inclosed by a gate.
• The courtyard is inclosed by a colonnade.
• The village is inclosed by a forest.
• The monument is inclosed by a stone wall.
• The sanctuary is inclosed by a hedge.
• The museum is inclosed by a glass dome.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Using enclose and inclose interchangeably is a common mistake that many people make. While these words may seem similar, they have different meanings and should be used in specific contexts. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using Enclose Instead Of Inclose

One common mistake is using enclose instead of inclose. Enclose means to surround or confine something, while inclose means to insert or include something within an enclosed area. For example, “The letter was inclosed in the envelope” is correct, while “The letter was enclosed in the envelope” is incorrect.

Using Inclose Instead Of Enclose

Another mistake is using inclose instead of enclose. Inclose is a less common word and is typically used in legal or formal contexts. Enclose is a more common word and is used in everyday language. For example, “The garden was enclosed by a fence” is correct, while “The garden was inclosed by a fence” is incorrect.

Confusing Inclose With Include

Some people also confuse inclose with include. Include means to contain or have as a part of something, while inclose means to insert or include something within an enclosed area. For example, “The report includes a summary of the findings” is correct, while “The report incloses a summary of the findings” is incorrect.

Tips To Avoid Mistakes

To avoid making these mistakes in the future, it’s important to understand the meanings of enclose and inclose and use them in the appropriate contexts. Here are some tips:

• Use enclose when referring to surrounding or confining something.
• Use inclose when referring to inserting or including something within an enclosed area.
• Avoid using inclose in everyday language and stick to include or enclose instead.
• Proofread your writing to ensure you have used the correct word.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between “enclose” and “inclose,” context plays a significant role in determining which word to use. The meaning of both words is quite similar, but the context in which they are used can alter the intended message.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between “enclose” and “inclose” might change:

Context	Example Sentence	Correct Word Choice
Physical Space	We need to _______ the backyard with a fence.	Enclose
Letter Writing	Please _______ a check for the amount due.	Inclose
Legal Terminology	The contract stated that the arbitration agreement would _______ all disputes.	Enclose
Architecture	The building’s design will _______ a courtyard in the center.	Enclose

In the physical space context, “enclose” is the correct word choice as it refers to enclosing an area with a physical barrier, such as a fence. However, in letter writing, “inclose” is the correct word choice as it refers to enclosing a document or item with a letter. In legal terminology, “enclose” is the correct word choice as it refers to including everything necessary to complete a contract. Finally, in architecture, “enclose” is the correct word choice as it refers to creating a barrier around a space.

As you can see, the context in which “enclose” and “inclose” are used can significantly impact their intended meaning. It’s essential to consider the context carefully to ensure that you’re using the correct word choice for your intended message.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using enclose and inclose are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they may not apply. Here are some examples:

Legal Terminology

In legal terminology, the word “enclose” is often used to refer to enclosing a document or other item in an envelope or other container. However, “inclose” is not commonly used in this context. For example, a legal document may instruct the recipient to “enclose a check for the amount due” or “enclose a copy of your identification.”

British English

In British English, “inclose” is a more commonly used spelling than “enclose.” However, both spellings are generally considered acceptable in British English. In American English, “enclose” is the more commonly used spelling.

Technical Writing

In technical writing, the rules for using enclose and inclose may vary depending on the specific field or subject matter. For example, in computer programming, the term “enclose” may be used to refer to enclosing a section of code within parentheses or other delimiters. In this context, “inclose” would not be appropriate.

Idiomatic Expressions

There are some idiomatic expressions that use the word “enclose” or “inclose” in a non-literal sense. For example, the phrase “enclosed please find” is a common way to introduce documents or other items that are included in a letter or email. In this case, “inclosed” would not be appropriate.

Exceptions to the rules for using enclose and inclose

Exception	Explanation	Example
Legal Terminology	The word “enclose” is often used to refer to enclosing a document or other item in an envelope or other container.	“Enclose a copy of your identification.”
British English	In British English, “inclose” is a more commonly used spelling than “enclose.”	“Please inclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.”
Technical Writing	The rules for using enclose and inclose may vary depending on the specific field or subject matter.	“Enclose the function within parentheses.”
Idiomatic Expressions	There are some idiomatic expressions that use the word “enclose” or “inclose” in a non-literal sense.	“Enclosed please find the requested documents.”

Practice Exercises

Improving one’s understanding and use of enclose and inclose requires practice. Here are some exercises that readers can use to hone their skills:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word (enclose or inclose) to fill in the blank in the following sentences:

1. The fence will _______ the yard.
2. Please _______ a copy of your resume with your application.
3. The package was _______ in brown paper.
4. The letter was _______ in an envelope.
5. The walls of the castle _______ the courtyard.

Answer key:

1. enclose
2. enclose
3. enclosed
4. enclosed
5. enclose

Exercise 2: Sentence Correction

Correct the following sentences by replacing the incorrect word with the correct one (enclose or inclose):

1. The letter was inclosed in an envelope.
2. The garden was enclosed by a white picket fence.
3. Please inclose a check with your order.
4. The package was enclose in bubble wrap.
5. The walls of the fort inclosed the soldiers.

Answer key:

1. The letter was enclosed in an envelope.
2. The garden was enclosed by a white picket fence.
3. Please enclose a check with your order.
4. The package was enclosed in bubble wrap.
5. The walls of the fort enclosed the soldiers.

By practicing with these exercises, readers can improve their understanding and use of enclose and inclose in sentences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between enclose and inclose may seem small, but it can make a big difference in the clarity and precision of your writing. Remember:

• Enclose is the more common spelling and refers to the act of surrounding or enclosing something.
• Inclose is an archaic spelling that is rarely used today, but can be used to add a touch of old-fashioned charm or to maintain consistency with older texts.
• Both words can be used in a variety of contexts, from physical objects to abstract concepts.
• When in doubt, consult a reliable dictionary or style guide to ensure that you are using the correct spelling and meaning.

As you continue to learn about grammar and language use, remember that precision and clarity are key. By paying attention to subtle differences like the spelling of enclose vs inclose, you can elevate your writing and communicate more effectively with your readers.