1

"enclosure" has the meaning "attachment", can it be used in an e-mail?

Are they the same in this meaning?

Improve this question
2
  • You could use it, but why would you use it, when there is a more suitable word that is more understandable, and sounds more natural?
    – J.R. ♦
    Sep 13, 2013 at 9:57
  • Well Bill Gates used it in a video: youtu.be/FV2tMP37ygs?t=670 :D
    – Albus Eduard Morris
    May 21, 2020 at 14:21

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
7

I don't think I'd understand enclosure if you meant an email attachment. I think enclosed might work, though:

Please take a look at the enclosed file.

I think I might understand this. But! This is a metaphor for including something in the envelope of a physical letter, and as time goes on I think it may be understood by fewer and fewer people. I don't think it's terribly clear, so I wouldn't recommend saying it. I'd recommend using the word attachment (or attached) instead:

Please take a look at the attached file.

or:

I've included a couple attachments in this email. Could you please take a look at them and get back to me?

There's no real reason to use any other word. You can say attachment over and over without worrying about using synonyms to keep it interesting.

Improve this answer
1
  • Yep! +1. There's also the common wording "Please find attached [the type of/name of file that's attached]." :)
    – WendiKidd
    Sep 13, 2013 at 13:01
0

Enclosure means "something that is placed in an envelope with a letter." For emails, you would use attachment or attached file as snailboat suggested.

Improve this answer

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .