Encase vs. Incase

The doubts created by the pair of words “encase” and “incase” are a normal effect of their similarity in pronunciation and writing. Words that are spelled almost identically often create confusions and are used wrongly, maybe inappropriately replaced one with the other.

Even so, it is important that you understand the difference between them and remember what they stand for in any context, so that you make sure you are always using them correctly. Grammar.com is going to explain for you, quickly and shortly, the difference between “encase” and “incase” and whether they are correct or not.

Encase vs. Incase

“Encase” is a verb, defined in dictionaries, referring to being covered completely in something else. We’ll explain that better below. What you should remember, anyway, is that “encase” is a formal word, used as a verb.
“Incase”, on the other hand, does not exist. At least, it doesn’t in this form. This is actually a misspelling, either for “encase” or for “in case”. They are pronounced the same, but you should pay attention to the context so you know which one is correct. “In case” refers to a possibility, to the case when something might happen, to the moment when a certain condition is accomplished.

When do we use “encase”?

“Encase” is a verb used formally to describe an object or a person completely covered in something.
Example: Please encase that stone in concrete, let’s see how it looks like! – referring to the action of covering an object completely in another material.

When do we use “incase”?

In this form, never. “Incase” is not a correct word, unless it’s spelled as two words: “in” + “case”.
Example: Let me know in case you change your mind. – referring to another possibility.

Conclusion

You should only remember to use “encase” in a formal context, when you refer to the action of covering something completely in another material/substance/object. “Incase”, on the other hand, can be taken out of your vocabulary, as it’s just a misspelling. That’s all you have to remember so you make sure you’ll never use these words wrongly.