While both "surround" and "encircle" imply being enclosed or surrounded by something, there are subtle differences in their usage. "Surround" suggests a more complete and often less precise enclosure. Think of it as being completely enclosed on all sides, but perhaps not in a neat or perfect way. On the other hand, "encircle" implies a more precise and often circular or ring-like enclosure. It suggests a more defined and deliberate act of surrounding.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

• Surround: The police surrounded the building. (The police were all around the building, perhaps not in a perfect circle.)

• Surround (Translation): The police were positioned all around the building, potentially not forming a perfect circle.

• Encircle: The children encircled the maypole, singing and dancing. (The children formed a circle around the maypole.)

• Encircle (Translation): The children created a circle around the maypole while singing and dancing.

• Surround: Mountains surrounded the small village. (The mountains were all around the village, forming an irregular boundary.)

• Surround (Translation): Mountains enclosed the small village on all sides, the perimeter being irregular.

• Encircle: A thick, green ring encircled the tree trunk. (The ring was a defined circular shape.)

• Encircle (Translation): A thick, circular ring of green growth was positioned around the tree's trunk.

Notice that "encircle" often implies a more complete and structured ring, while "surround" allows for more irregularity and less precise enclosure. Often, you can use "surround" in place of "encircle", but not always the other way around. Consider the precision and the shape of the enclosure when selecting the most appropriate word.

Happy learning!