What is the Difference Between Enclosed and Attached?

The terms "enclosed" and "attached" are often used in the context of including additional documents or items with a letter or email. However, they have distinct meanings and should be used in different situations:

• Enclosed: This term refers to a document or item that is physically placed inside an envelope along with a letter, separate from the main content of the letter. For example, "Please find the resume enclosed with this letter." The term "enclosed" is derived from the verb "enclose," which means to enclose something in an envelope or container.
• Attached: This term refers to a document or item that is connected to the main content of a letter or email, typically by stapling, paperclipping, or pinning it to the main page. In the context of emails, an attachment is a separate file that is connected to the email, often as a PDF, Word document, or other file format. For example, "Please find the attached report." The term "attached" is derived from the verb "attach," which means to join or connect something to another thing.

In summary, the main difference between "enclosed" and "attached" is that "enclosed" refers to something placed inside an envelope as a separate item, while "attached" refers to something connected to the main content of a letter or email.

Comparative Table: Enclosed vs Attached

The difference between "enclosed" and "attached" lies in how the additional document or item is connected to the main content or purpose of the letter or email. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

In summary:

• "Enclosed" refers to a document or item that is separate and contained within an envelope or space.
• "Attached" refers to a document or item that is joined, connected, or added to the main document, either physically (e.g., stapled, paperclipped) or electronically (e.g., as a PDF or Word document).