Inclosed or Enclosed: The Right Choice for Your Writing

When I first studied English, I often compared Inclosed or Enclosed, wondering why older literature used one form and modern letters preferred the other. Over the years I learned that languages change, and old spellings often fade as new ones become standard, especially when publications, dictionaries, and writers I admire move toward one accepted version.

In my daily writing, I see how simple choices matter, like when I insert notes in an envelope, label packages, or send mailed documents where the verb “enclose” feels natural. I’ve noticed older forms like inclosed or inclosure feel more historical or even poetic, especially when reading older books or studying the origins of certain terms. As technologies change how we send things, the usage of “enclosed” stays common, and it often helps writers avoid small confusions that interrupt the flow of their business or academic work.

After years of reviewing essays, guiding newer writers, and working with professionals who value polished and credible communication, I’ve seen how knowing the meaning, history, and context behind a word gives confidence. Whether you read published examples, follow practical tips, or simply trust what feels natural and widely used, choosing “enclosed” over “inclosed” aligns with modern standards and prevents that moment when you stop and second-guess a familiar term.

Understanding ‘Inclosed’ and ‘Enclosed’

Both inclosed and enclosed refer to something being surrounded, contained, or placed within something else, but their usage differs.

• Inclosed is an older form, primarily used in historical texts and literature. Its usage today is rare.
• Enclosed is modern and widely accepted, appearing in letters, emails, reports, and formal documents.

Example Sentences:

• Inclosed (historical/literary): “The garden was inclosed by high hedges to protect it from the wind.”
• Enclosed (modern/professional): “Please find the enclosed report for your review.”

Key Takeaway: Enclosed is the preferred choice in contemporary writing, while inclosed may appear in literary or historical contexts.

Historical Background and Etymology

Understanding the roots of these words sheds light on why usage differs.

• Inclosed originated in Middle English as inclos, meaning “to shut in or confine.” It was commonly used in writings from the 16th to 19th centuries.
• Enclosed derives from the Old French “enclore”, meaning “to surround or confine.” Over time, it became the standard in modern English, particularly in formal and professional writing.

Literary Example:

• Shakespeare: “The court was inclosed with great walls and towers.”
• Modern Example: “The package enclosed all necessary documents.”

Observation: Inclosed conveys an older or literary tone, whereas enclosed feels natural and modern.

Modern Usage: Which One is Preferred Today?

In today’s English, enclosed is overwhelmingly preferred. Whether in business emails, letters, or legal documents, it communicates clarity and professionalism.

• Emails and Letters: “Please find the enclosed invoice for your records.”
• Reports and Proposals: “The enclosed data outlines the project’s milestones.”

Why Avoid ‘Inclosed’ in Modern Writing:

• May sound archaic or outdated
• Can confuse readers unfamiliar with older English
• Often replaced automatically by grammar checkers and style guides

Practical Tip: When in doubt, always use enclosed. It is safe, professional, and universally understood.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned writers sometimes confuse these words. Common mistakes include:

• Using inclosed in formal letters: “Please find the inclosed report.”
• Misunderstanding context: Using enclosed in literary texts where inclosed might be historically accurate.

Correct Usage Table:

Mistake	Corrected Version	Notes
Please find the inclosed invoice.	Please find the enclosed invoice.	Modern professional writing
The garden was enclosed by hedges.	The garden was inclosed by hedges.	Historical or literary context

Tip: Check audience and context first. Business = enclosed. Historical literature = inclosed may be acceptable.

‘Enclosed’ in Formal Writing

Enclosed enhances professionalism and clarity in various formal documents:

• Letters:
  “Please find the enclosed brochure detailing our services.”
• Contracts:
  “The enclosed agreement must be signed by both parties.”
• Reports:
  “The enclosed financial data reflects the quarterly performance.”

Why It Works:

• Removes ambiguity
• Standardizes communication
• Aligns with modern English conventions

Pro Tip: Always pair enclosed with specific items or documents to maintain clarity.

‘Inclosed’ in Historical or Literary Contexts

Though rare today, inclosed is found in older literature and historical writings:

• Example 1: “The castle was inclosed by mighty stone walls.”
• Example 2: “He walked into the inclosed courtyard, feeling the silence.”

Key Insight: Modern writers rarely use inclosed, but understanding it helps interpret historical texts accurately.

Read More: Cubical vs Cubicle: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Space

Visual Guide: Quick Comparison Table

Word	Usage Context	Example Sentence	Notes
Inclosed	Historical, literary	“The castle was inclosed by high walls.”	Rarely used today
Enclosed	Modern, formal, professional	“Please find the enclosed report.”	Standard choice in writing

This table allows writers to quickly decide which term fits their context.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Word

• Use ‘enclosed’ for modern writing: emails, letters, reports, contracts.
• Use ‘inclosed’ for historical or literary texts where authenticity matters.
• Mnemonic: Think “E for Everyday use” → Enclosed is safe for all professional and casual writing.
• Check style guides: Most recommend enclosed for clarity and professionalism.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid mixing both in the same document
• When referencing historical texts, preserve inclosed if quoting directly

Read More: Ignitor vs Igniter: When & Where to Use Each

Examples and Scenarios: Applying the Correct Word

Here are real-life scenarios demonstrating correct usage:

• Business Email:
  “Dear Mr. Smith, Please find the enclosed contract for your signature.”
• Academic Report:
  “The enclosed appendix provides supplementary data for reference.”
• Historical Literature:
  “The garden was inclosed by tall hedges, shielding it from the wind.”
• Legal Document:
  “The enclosed agreement details the responsibilities of both parties.”

Takeaway: Always match context and tone to the word choice.

FAQs:

1. Which spelling is correct today?

Enclosed is the correct and standard spelling in modern English.

2. Is “inclosed” wrong?

It isn’t wrong historically, but today it is considered a misspelling in most contexts.

3. Why did the spelling change?

English spellings shifted over time as the language became more standardized.

4. Can I use “inclosed” in formal writing?

It’s best to avoid it in business, legal, or academic writing because it is no longer common.

5. Do dictionaries still list “inclosed”?

Some do, but many dictionaries mark it as old, rare, or obsolete.

Conclusion:

In the end, choosing between enclosed and inclosed is simple once you understand how languages change and why only one form is now standard. As writing needs grew and styles shifted across publications, the modern spelling became the preferred and most widely used option.

From business letters to academic papers, using the correct form helps your writing look more credible, avoids small confusions, and keeps your communication clear. When in doubt, remember that enclosed works in every modern context, while inclosed belongs to history, older literature, and poetic expressions.