Attached and Enclosed It is quite common to see the word ‘enclose’ used in emails when actually referring to an attachment. However, this is incorrect. ‘Enclose’ refers to putting something inside an envelope or a body of text. ‘Attach’ refers to joining one thing to another, like to add a file to an e-mail. ‘Enclose’ tends to be used mainly for business letters, as you may insert something besides the letter into the envelope. ‘Attach’ is predominantly used for e-mails. However, if the document you are referring to is inside the body of the email, then you could use the word ‘enclose’. Typical language structures for referring to an attachment are: I have attached the report for your review. I am pleased to attach the report for your review. I attach the report for your review. I am attaching the report for your review. Please find attached the report for your review. The report is attached for your review. (Passive structure) The following structures are incorrect and should be avoided: I attached the report for your review. Attached please find the report for your review. Attached is the report for your review.
