What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enclose
Example
Please enclose your resume and cover letter in the envelope. [enclose: verb]
Example
The garden is enclosed by a tall fence. [enclosed: past participle]
contain
Example
The jar contains cookies. [contains: verb]
Example
The vaccine is designed to contain the spread of the virus. [contain: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contain is more commonly used than enclose in everyday language. Contain is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while enclose is less common and often used in specific contexts such as letters, packages, or physical boundaries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between enclose and contain?
Both enclose and contain can be used in formal or informal contexts, but enclose may be more formal due to its association with written communication and official documents.
