What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
encage
Example
The zoo encaged the lions for visitors to see. [encaged: past tense]
Example
The kidnappers encaged the victim in a small room. [encaging: gerund or present participle]
imprison
Example
The court sentenced him to be imprisoned for ten years. [imprisoned: past tense]
Example
The dictator imprisoned his political opponents for speaking out against him. [imprisoning: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Imprison is more commonly used than encage in everyday language, especially in legal or formal contexts. Encage is less common and is mostly used in specific contexts, such as referring to animals in captivity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between encage and imprison?
Imprison is a more formal and serious word than encage, which can be used in more casual or informal contexts.
