What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
encapsulate
Example
The author was able to encapsulate the entire novel's theme in just one sentence. [encapsulate: verb]
Example
The capsule is designed to encapsulate the medication for easy ingestion. [encapsulate: verb]
summarize
Example
Can you summarize the article for me? I don't have time to read it all. [summarize: verb]
Example
The summary of the report highlighted the key findings and recommendations. [summary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Summarize is more commonly used than encapsulate in everyday language. Summarize is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while encapsulate is less common and is typically used in technical or specialized fields.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between encapsulate and summarize?
Both encapsulate and summarize can be used in formal and informal contexts, but encapsulate is more likely to be used in technical or specialized fields, which may give it a more formal connotation.