What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gulfed
Example
The small village was gulfed by the vast ocean on one side and towering cliffs on the other. [gulfed: verb]
Example
The resort was located in a picturesque town gulfed by the Gulf of Mexico. [gulfed: adjective]
Example
The political divide between the two parties seemed to be gulfed by irreconcilable differences. [gulfed: past participle]
engulfed
Example
The house was engulfed by flames within minutes. [engulfed: verb]
Example
The city was engulfed by a massive flood, causing widespread damage. [engulfed: past participle]
Example
She felt engulfed by a sense of despair and hopelessness. [engulfed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Engulfed is more commonly used than gulfed in everyday language, due to its wider range of contexts and stronger connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gulfed and engulfed?
Both gulfed and engulfed are formal words that may be used in academic or technical writing, but engulfed is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
