Differences between fence in and hem in
Fence in means to surround an area with a fence or barrier, while hem in means to restrict or confine someone or something within a limited space.
Meanings and Definitions: fence in vs hem in
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Fence in
- 1Enclose an area.
They FENCED the whole garden IN.
Hem in
- 1To surround or confine someone or something.
A white van hemmed me in.
- 2To restrict or confine someone or something.
Don’t hem in your child with endless restrictions.
Usage Examples: fence in, hem in in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
fence in
Example
We need to fence in the backyard to keep the dog safe.
Example
She fences in her garden to protect it from animals.
hem in
Example
The tall bushes hem in the small garden.
Example
The fence hems in the animals to keep them safe.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fence in
To surround or close off an area with a physical barrier.
Example
The farmer decided to enclose his land with a fence to keep the animals from wandering off.
To form a circle or ring around something.
Example
The spectators encircled the stage, waiting for the performance to begin.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hem in
To limit or restrict someone's actions or choices.
Example
The strict rules constrained her creativity and made it difficult to express herself.
To confine or restrict someone or something within a limited space or situation.
Example
The heavy traffic trapped us on the highway for hours.
Differences in fence in vs hem in: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: fence in or hem in?
Both phrases are used in everyday conversation, but hem in is more common in informal settings. Fence in is used more in formal contexts such as construction or property management.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fence in and hem in
Fence in is more formal than hem in. It is often used in legal documents or official notices. Hem in is informal and can be used in casual conversations with friends and family.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fence in and hem in
The tone of fence in is usually practical and straightforward, while hem in can have a negative connotation of restriction or confinement.
