Include Does Not Promise a Complete List
To include is to have something as a part. The word signals examples, not a full inventory, which matters in contracts.
To include is to contain something as one of several parts. The word deliberately leaves room: a list that *includes* three items may have more. Lawyers spell out the difference with *including without limitation* and *consisting of*, because the gap between them has decided real cases.
- To contain as part of a whole. *The price includes delivery.*
- To make someone part of a group. *Include her in the meeting.*
- Including — used to introduce examples. *Several countries, including Spain.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Verb | include | It includes tax. |
| Past | included | Batteries included. |
| Preposition | including | Including postage. |
| Noun | inclusion | Social inclusion. |
| Adjective | inclusive | An inclusive price. |
How it is used in a sentence
- The fee includes breakfast.Part of a larger whole.
- Everyone was included in the photograph.About people.
- Open Monday to Friday inclusive.Inclusive means the end points count.
Include, comprise and consist
- Include — some of the parts, not necessarily all
- Comprise — the whole is made up of all these parts
- Consist of — the same, and always with *of*
- Compose — the parts make up the whole
- Inclusive — covering everything, or welcoming to everyone
From Latin *includere*, to shut in, from *in* and *claudere*, to close — the same root as *exclude*, *conclude* and *seclude*.
Include or comprise?
Comprise means the list is complete. Include leaves room for items not mentioned, which is why contracts add *without limitation*.
Is *comprised of* wrong?
Many editors still object to it, preferring *composed of* or *comprises*. It is nonetheless very common.