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Envelop or Envelope: Which Spelling Is Correct?
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Have you ever wondered whether envelop or envelope is the right spelling? If so, then today's grammar article should offer some guidance.
Both envelop and envelope are their own words with slightly different spellings and separate (but related) meanings. We'll discuss the difference so you can use each word properly in your writing and speaking.
The Difference Between Envelop and Envelope
Let's start with definitions. Envelop, spelled without an "e" at the end and pronounced en-VEL-up, is a verb (action word) that means "to cover or surround something."
Examples
In the morning, fog will envelop the small farm at the top of the hill.
He is a good man who envelops people with warmth and compassion. |
Envelop isn't used frequently in American English, which is why some people might mistake it for a typo or misspelling at first. When used correctly, however, it is a valid verb that can contribute to expressive writing.
The word envelope, spelled with an "e" at the end and pronounced EN-vuh-lope, is a noun that is commonly used to communicate something that envelops something else. It is also the word for the flat paper container in which we send or ship something, such as a letter.
Here is an example of envelope (noun) being used correctly:
| I set aside the cash for my niece's birthday in a colored envelope. |
You probably already recognize the relation between the words we're discussing. An envelope (noun) envelops (verb) its contents.
Envelope in Idiom
You may sometimes come across the idiomatic phrase pushing the envelope, which means "to exceed the typical limits of what is usually done." It is often used to describe innovation.
Examples
The civic engineers are pushing the envelope of how recyclable materials can be used to build bridges.
Chuck Yeager was pushing the envelope when his test plane broke the sound barrier for the first time. |
This idiom originates from aviation, in which the "envelope" refers to the boundaries of a plane's performance within the flyable portion of the atmosphere that envelops the earth. "Pushing the envelope" became a phrase for testing an aircraft's speed and elevation limits within the "envelope."
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Pop Quiz
Now that you know the spellings and meanings for envelop and envelope, choose the correct usage in each sentence.
1. I had to find a new [envelop / envelope] for the electric bill after I spilled coffee on the first one.
2. A birthday card is supposed to come with an [envelop / envelope] that's the right size.
3. No matter how fast racecars get, competitive drivers will always be tempted to push the [envelop / envelope].
4. I love the way silence will [envelop / envelope] a theater right before a symphony begins.
5. If you stop by the post office, would you please buy a stamp for this [envelop / envelope]?
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Wordplay
A couple of things we've heard from friends missing social interaction:
I struck up a conversation with a spider today. Seems nice. He's a web designer.
I'm starting a social network for chickens as a way to make hens meet.
Pop Quiz Answers
1. I had to find a new envelope for the electric bill after I spilled coffee on the first one.
2. A birthday card is supposed to come with an envelope that's the right size.
3. No matter how fast racecars get, competitive drivers will always be tempted to push the envelope.
4. I love the way silence will envelop a theater right before a symphony begins.
5. If you stop by the post office, would please you buy a stamp for this envelope?
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