Encompassing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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encompassing
[ษชnหkสmpษsษชล ]
Definitions
in a broad sense
Including or covering all the relevant aspects, ideas, or elements.
Synonyms
complete, comprehensive, inclusive, overall.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| encompassing |
Used when describing something that covers or includes a wide range of elements or aspects.
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| comprehensive |
Used when something is thorough and includes all or nearly all elements or aspects. Ideal for detailed and extensive scopes.
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| inclusive |
Used to denote that something includes a wide range of items or people, often highlighting diversity and acceptance.
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| complete |
Used to indicate that something is whole, with no parts missing or omitted. Often emphasizes the state of being finished or entire.
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| overall |
Used to summarize the total or general aspect of something, often giving a broad perspective.
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Examples of usage
- The report provides an encompassing overview of the current situation.
- Her speech was all-encompassing, addressing every possible concern.
- The project aims to create an encompassing solution to the problem.
surrounding or enclosing
Surround and have or hold within.
Synonyms
embrace, enclose, envelop, surround.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| encompassing |
This word was already explained above.
|
| enclose |
Enclose is appropriate for situations where you are talking about physically surrounding something or putting something inside a space.
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| surround |
This word is useful when describing something that is on all sides of an object or person, often for protective, natural, or situational reasons.
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| envelop |
Envelop is used when something completely covers or surrounds another, often in a way that is protective or concealing.
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| embrace |
This word is best used when talking about holding someone warmly with the arms, or to accept eagerly an idea or practice.
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Examples of usage
- The garden was encompassed by a tall hedge.
- The town is encompassed by beautiful countryside.
- His arms were warm as they encompassed her.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- The term is often used in literature to describe themes that include multiple perspectives or experiences.
- In poetry, encompassing imagery can create a rich tapestry of meaning and emotion, encapsulating the essence of a moment or feeling.
- Writers use the term to convey inclusivity, portraying diverse characters and viewpoints to create a fuller narrative.
Environmental Science
- Encompassing approaches in environmental science highlight the interconnectedness of ecosystems and human activities.
- Conservation efforts often focus on encompassing various habitats to preserve biodiversity effectively.
- Sustainable development requires an encompassing view that considers economic, social, and environmental factors together.
Philosophy
- Philosophers argue that an encompassing worldview helps us understand our place in the universe and our relationships with others.
- The concept is crucial in ethics, where encompassing moral frameworks can guide decisions affecting many people.
- A holistic philosophy embraces encompassing perspectives to form a complete understanding of complex issues.
Education
- Good teaching practices often involve an encompassing curriculum that addresses various subjects and skills.
- Classrooms that encompass diverse learning styles promote better understanding and retention among students.
- Educational models that are encompassing tend to foster life-long learning by integrating real-world applications.
Origin of 'encompassing'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'encompassen,' which means to enclose or surround.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Old French word 'encombrer,' meaning to hinder, indicating the act of surrounding something.
- The prefix 'en-' means 'to cause to be,' while 'compass' refers to a circle or a boundary, suggesting the idea of enclosing.
The word 'encompassing' originated from Middle English 'encompassen', from Old French 'encompasser', based on Latin 'com-' (together) + 'passus' (a step or pace). The concept of encircling or surrounding gradually evolved to include the broader sense of including all aspects. Over time, 'encompassing' has become a versatile term used in various contexts to describe completeness and inclusivity.
See also: encompassed, encompassment.