Encompass vs Include

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Encompass

Top 3,000 (common)C1verb

Include

Top 1,000 (very common)A1verb
Most common: Include
 EncompassInclude
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/ɪnˈkʌmpəs/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪz/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəst/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪnˈkʌmpəs/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪz/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəst/","/ɪnˈkʌmpəsɪŋ/"]/🇬🇧 /["/ɪnˈkluːd/","/ɪnˈkluːdz/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪd/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪnˈkluːd/","/ɪnˈkluːdz/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪd/","/ɪnˈkluːdɪŋ/"]/
MeaningTo include or cover something completely.to have something as part of a group or whole
ExampleThe job encompasses a wide range of responsibilities.You should include your contact information in the application.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 3,000 (common)Top 1,000 (very common)
CEFR levelC1A1
Part of speechverbverb
Collocationsencompass a range, encompass various elements, encompass ideas, encompass different cultures, encompass multiple factorsinclude in a list, include as part, include among
Antonymsexclude, omit, leave outexclude, omit, leave out
Common mistakesConfusing 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 notesUsed 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.

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