Encompass vs Include
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Encompass
Include
| Encompass | Include | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪnˈkʌmpəs/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪz/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəst/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪnˈkʌmpəs/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪz/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəst/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪŋ/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪnˈkluːd/","/ɪnˈkluːdz/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪd/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪnˈkluːd/","/ɪnˈkluːdz/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪd/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪŋ/"]/ |
| Meaning | To include or cover something completely. | to have something as part of a group or whole |
| Example | The job encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. | You should include your contact information in the application. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 3,000 (common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | verb | verb |
| Collocations | encompass a range, encompass various elements, encompass ideas, encompass different cultures, encompass multiple factors | include in a list, include as part, include among |
| Antonyms | exclude, omit, leave out | exclude, omit, leave out |
| Common mistakes | Confusing with 'comprise' which has a slightly different meaning., Using 'encompass' with an incorrect subject (e.g., not using it with things that cannot be included). | Confused with 'exclude' and use the wrong word., Omitting the object after 'include'., Using 'include' incorrectly in negative sentences. |
| Usage notes | Used when talking about including various elements or aspects. Suitable for both spoken and written contexts, and can fit in academic or professional discussions. | Use 'include' to specify that something is part of a larger list or group. Avoid using it when talking about things that are not part of that list. |
Frequently asked questions: Encompass vs Include
What's the difference between Encompass and Include?
Encompass: To include or cover something completely. Include: to have something as part of a group or whole
Which is more common: Encompass and Include?
Include is the most common in everyday English.
Which is more advanced: Encompass and Include?
Encompass is the highest level, at C1, on the CEFR scale.
Are Encompass and Include the same CEFR level?
Encompass: C1, Include: A1 on the CEFR scale.
What part of speech are Encompass and Include?
Encompass: verb, Include: verb.
Can you show an example of each?
Encompass: The job encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. Include: You should include your contact information in the application.
Can I use Encompass and Include interchangeably?
Not always. Encompass and Include are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.