What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incumbered
Example
The company was incumbered by a lack of funding. [incumbered: past tense]
Example
She felt incumbered by her heavy backpack. [incumbered: adjective]
encumbered
Example
The project was encumbered by a lack of resources. [encumbered: past tense]
Example
He was encumbered by his own doubts and fears. [encumbered: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Encumbered is more commonly used than incumbered in everyday language, especially in American English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incumbered and encumbered?
Incumbered is typically associated with a more formal or legal tone, while encumbered is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
