WordGarden.ioenumerate
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnjˈuːmərˌeɪt/
US
- /ɪˈnumərˌeɪt/
Meanings
Verb
to list or name things one by one
to systematically generate, count, or identify all members of a set
Beyond the definition
Imagine you've just returned from a fantastic trip and want to tell your friend everything! You wouldn't just ramble; you'd likely enumerate the highlights by listing them one by one. To enumerate means to name the parts of something in order, or to count things carefully. A librarian might enumerate the books on a shelf to make sure none are missing, and a chef might enumerate the ingredients in a recipe. It's about bringing order to a group of things and making it clear and easy to follow. Think of it like creating a numbered inventory: that's enumerating!
To enumerate means to mention (all of) the items in a list one by one. It goes beyond simply naming things; it implies a systematic listing, often with numbers or other markers to show order and completeness. While you might casually "list" your favorite movies, to enumerate them suggests a more thorough and detailed accounting – perhaps for a survey or report.
The word comes from the Latin "enumerare," meaning "to reckon up" or "to count." Historically, it was often used in formal contexts like legal documents or scholarly writing where precise listing was crucial. For example, an ancient treaty might enumerate the terms of peace, detailing each agreement point by point.
Today, while still found in more formal settings ("The report enumerates the key findings…"), you can also use it in everyday language to emphasize a complete and organized list. "She enumerated all the reasons why she loved her new city," suggests a thoughtful and detailed explanation.
It's important to note that enumeration isn't just about physical objects. You can enumerate abstract concepts, like benefits or challenges. For instance, "Let me enumerate the advantages of this plan…" is a way of saying, "I will list all the good things about it."
So, if you need to present information in a clear, organized, and complete manner – think of enumerating! It's about bringing order to chaos through careful listing.
Examples
- 1
Classroom instructions
The teacher asked us to enumerate the steps in the experiment.
- 2
Formal email
In your email, please enumerate the main reasons for the delay.
- 3
City planning
The report enumerates several ways the city could reduce traffic.
- 4
Constitutional law
The constitution enumerates the powers of the federal government.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Complaints
I could enumerate all the things that went wrong, but it would take all day.
- Usageenumerate
a slightly formal way to say "list one by one"
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- enumerate the reasons
- enumerate the steps
- enumerate each item
- enumerate possible causes
Word family
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Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- enumerateverb
Forms
- enumeratedpast tenseverb
- enumeratesverb
- enumerating-ing formverb