What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
circled
Example
The children circled around the teacher to listen to the story. [circled: past tense]
Example
She circled her answer on the test paper. [circled: verb]
encircled
Example
The castle was encircled by a moat for protection. [encircled: past tense]
Example
The hikers were encircled by tall mountains. [encircled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Circled is more commonly used in everyday language, while encircled is less frequently used and considered more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between circled and encircled?
While circled is commonly used in informal contexts, encircled is more formal and suitable for professional or academic writing.
