Understanding the difference between inclosed and enclosed can save you from common spelling mistakes in writing, business correspondence, and academic papers.
While both words may seem similar, one is widely used today, and the other mostly belongs to historical or poetic contexts. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these two terms, their origins, usage, and practical tips for choosing the right word.
Quick Overview
Many writers get confused when deciding whether to use inclosed or enclosed. While the words share a common meaning—essentially “surrounded” or “contained”—their usage and acceptance in modern English differ significantly.
Enclosed dominates contemporary writing, especially in formal correspondence, emails, and business documents. Inclosed, on the other hand, appears mostly in older texts or historical contexts. Understanding the differences helps you write confidently and professionally.
Understanding the Basics
At their core, both inclosed and enclosed mean something that is surrounded or contained within boundaries.
- Enclosed: Standard modern English spelling used in letters, documents, and general writing.
- Inclosed: Older variant, rarely used today except in historical or literary contexts.
The difference is subtle but important: using inclosed in modern writing can make your work look outdated or even incorrect.
Origin and Historical Background
Both words trace back to the Latin root includere, meaning “to shut in” or “to confine.” However, their paths diverged over time:
- Inclosed appeared first in Middle English texts during the 14th century. Writers such as Chaucer and legal documents frequently used it.
- Enclosed started appearing around the 16th century and gradually replaced inclosed as the preferred spelling.
This shift reflects broader trends in English spelling standardization. Over time, the “en-” prefix became dominant in everyday writing, while inclosed remained a historical or poetic form.
Inclosed: Definition, Meaning, and Usage
Definition: “Inclosed” means surrounded, confined, or shut within boundaries.
Example:
- “The castle garden was inclosed by high stone walls.”
Historical Contexts of Inclosed
- Legal Documents: In medieval England, property deeds often used inclosed to describe enclosed lands or estates.
- Literature: Older poetry and prose sometimes chose inclosed for stylistic reasons.
Modern relevance: Today, inclosed is largely archaic. It might still appear in historical texts, literature studies, or documents aiming for a classical tone. Using it in contemporary writing can make your text seem outdated or overly formal.
Enclosed: Definition, Meaning, and Usage
Definition: “Enclosed” refers to something contained or surrounded, often used in formal writing, letters, or packages.
Example:
- “Please find the report enclosed for your review.”
How Enclosed is Used Today
- Business Writing: Emails and letters frequently use enclosed to reference attachments.
- Official Documents: Legal and government communications standardize enclosed for clarity.
- Everyday Usage: Packages, envelopes, and even invitations often carry the phrase “enclosed please find.”
Key point: Enclosed is universally recognized and appropriate for nearly all modern contexts.
Key Differences Between Enclosed and Inclosed
| Feature | Inclosed | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Usage Frequency | Rare, historical | Common, modern |
| Context | Literary, historical, legal | Contemporary, business, formal |
| Region | Mainly UK historically | UK & US standard |
| Example | “The garden was inclosed by hedges.” | “The documents are enclosed for your reference.” |
Spelling Differences: US vs UK Influence
- Enclosed is standard in both American and British English today.
- Inclosed is mostly found in older British texts.
Contextual Differences
- Use enclosed in emails, formal letters, or professional communication.
- Reserve inclosed for historical writing or literary flair.
Guidelines for Choosing the Right Word
When to Use Enclosed:
- Sending attachments in emails
- Formal letters and business correspondence
- Legal documents requiring clarity
When Inclosed Might Still Appear:
- Historical research papers
- Literary or poetic works using archaic language
- Quoting old texts or manuscripts
Tips for Contemporary Writers:
- If you are unsure, always default to enclosed.
- Only use inclosed if replicating historical text or for stylistic effect.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Criteria | Inclosed | Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Modern Use | Rare | Very common |
| Formal Writing | Limited | Recommended |
| Historical Texts | Frequent | Less common |
| Memorability | Archaic | Easy to remember |
| Example Sentence | “The fields were inclosed with stone walls.” | “Please find the documents enclosed in this email.” |
Memory Aids and Tips
Here are easy ways to remember which one to use:
- Enclosed: Think “email attachment enclosed” → modern standard.
- Inclosed: Think “in old times, inclosed” → historical spelling.
- Visualize en- as surrounding everything like a package.
- Use mnemonic: E for Everywhere now → Enclosed.
Examples in Everyday Usage
Business Example:
- “Enclosed are the financial reports for your review.”
Formal Letter Example:
- “Enclosed please find a copy of the agreement signed by both parties.”
Historical Example:
- “The manor’s gardens were inclosed by high hedges in the 16th century.”
Conversational Example:
- “I’ve enclosed the photos you asked for in the envelope.”
These examples show why enclosed is the preferred choice for modern communication.
FAQs About Inclosed and Enclosed
Is “inclosed” wrong?
Not wrong historically, but it is considered archaic in modern English.
Can “enclosed” replace “inclosed” in old texts?
Yes, for clarity, but it may alter historical accuracy in literature or legal references.
Are there regional differences today?
No significant difference; enclosed is standard worldwide.
Which spelling is better for professional writing?
Always use enclosed for business, legal, or official communication.
Why do people still get confused between the two?
Historical texts, legal documents, and poetry occasionally use inclosed, which confuses modern writers.
Conclusion
In short, enclosed is your go-to word for modern writing. It’s clear, universally understood, and professional. Inclosed exists primarily in historical or literary contexts, and using it in everyday writing can seem outdated. When in doubt, stick with enclosed—it will always make your text sound polished, professional, and correct.
