“Please find enclosed” is a formal phrase traditionally used in letters and emails to refer to attached documents—but in modern communication, it can sound outdated or overly stiff. If you’re looking for smoother, more current alternatives, here are some strong options:
- I’ve attached – clear and professional for emails
- Attached is – concise and commonly used
- Enclosed you’ll find – formal, but slightly warmer
- Here is – direct and simple, best for casual or internal use
These alternatives work well in professional emails, cover letters, and business correspondence where clarity and tone matter.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “Please Find Enclosed”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Alternatives
- Examples of Alternatives
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “Please Find Enclosed”
The phrase “Please find enclosed” is a conventional expression used in formal and semi-formal correspondence to indicate that certain documents or items are included with the current communication. It serves as a polite notification to the recipient, directing their attention to the attached or included materials.
The phrase is typically used in business letters, emails, and other professional documents.
Classification: “Please find enclosed” is classified as a transitive verb phrase because it requires an object (the item being enclosed). It functions as an idiomatic expression, meaning its overall meaning is different from the literal meanings of the individual words. It falls under the broader category of business English and formal communication.
Function: The primary function of “Please find enclosed” is to inform the recipient about the presence of attached or included documents. It also serves a secondary function of demonstrating courtesy and professionalism. The phrase is intended to make the recipient aware of the additional materials they should review or consider.
Contexts: This phrase is commonly used in a variety of professional contexts, including:
- Business Letters: Traditional letters sent for formal communication.
- Emails: Digital correspondence used for internal and external communication.
- Reports: Official documents presenting information and analysis.
- Contracts: Legal agreements between parties.
- Invoices: Requests for payment for goods or services.
- Applications: Documents submitted for jobs or programs.
Structural Breakdown
The phrase “Please find enclosed” can be broken down into three main components, each contributing to its overall meaning and function:
- “Please”: This is a polite request, softening the directive nature of the statement. It adds a touch of courtesy and respect to the communication.
- “Find”: This is the verb in the imperative mood, instructing the recipient to locate or discover the enclosed item(s). In this context, “find” doesn’t necessarily mean to literally search for something, but rather to acknowledge or take note of its presence.
- “Enclosed”: This is an adjective that describes the state of the item(s) being included with the communication. It indicates that the item(s) are physically or digitally attached to the letter or email.
The structure of the phrase is quite rigid and doesn’t allow for much variation. The word order is almost always “Please find enclosed,” followed by the specific item(s) being referred to.
For example: “Please find enclosed the contract,” or “Please find enclosed my resume.”
Understanding the structural breakdown of “Please find enclosed” is helpful for understanding why certain alternatives are more appropriate in different contexts. For example, some alternatives may replace the entire phrase with a single verb, while others may rephrase the sentence to emphasize the action of sending or providing the information.
Types and Categories of Alternatives
There are several categories of alternatives to “Please find enclosed,” each with its own nuance and level of formality. Understanding these categories will help you choose the most appropriate phrase for your specific communication needs.
Direct Alternatives
These alternatives directly replace “Please find enclosed” with a similar phrase that conveys the same meaning. They are generally suitable for a wide range of professional contexts.
- Attached you will find: This phrase is a direct and clear way to indicate that something is attached.
- You will find attached: A slightly more concise version of the previous phrase.
- I have attached: This emphasizes the action of the sender.
- Enclosed is/are: A more formal and concise option.
Courteous Alternatives
These alternatives maintain a polite and respectful tone, similar to “Please find enclosed.” They are ideal for situations where you want to express gratitude or show extra consideration.
- Please see attached: This directs the recipient to review the attached document.
- Kindly find attached: “Kindly” adds an extra layer of politeness.
- I am pleased to enclose: This conveys a sense of willingness and helpfulness.
Formal Alternatives
These alternatives are suitable for highly formal or legalistic communications. They often use more sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures.
- Herewith enclosed: A very formal and somewhat archaic phrase.
- Please accept the enclosed: This is suitable when offering something of value.
- The attached document contains: This is a direct and professional statement.
Informal Alternatives
These alternatives are appropriate for casual or internal communications where a more relaxed tone is acceptable. However, use caution when using these with external clients or superiors.
- I’ve attached: A simple and straightforward option.
- You’ll find attached: A slightly more conversational tone.
- See attached: A very concise and informal option.
Specific Alternatives
These alternatives are tailored to specific situations or types of documents. They provide more context and clarity than the general phrase “Please find enclosed.”
- For your review, I have attached: Suitable when the recipient needs to review the document.
- Attached is the report you requested: Useful when fulfilling a specific request.
- Please find attached the updated version of: Used when providing an updated document.
Examples of Alternatives
The following tables provide extensive examples of how to use various alternatives to “Please find enclosed” in different contexts. These examples are designed to illustrate the nuances of each phrase and help you choose the most appropriate option for your specific needs.
Table 1: Direct Alternatives
This table presents direct alternatives to “Please find enclosed,” which can be used in a variety of professional settings to clearly indicate the presence of attached documents.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Attached you will find | Attached you will find the project proposal for your review. |
| You will find attached | You will find attached the meeting agenda and minutes from the previous session. |
| I have attached | I have attached the revised budget spreadsheet for your consideration. |
| Enclosed is | Enclosed is the signed contract as per our agreement. |
| Enclosed are | Enclosed are the receipts for the expenses incurred during the conference. |
| Attached is | Attached is the presentation slide deck for tomorrow’s meeting. |
| The attached document includes | The attached document includes details about the new company policy. |
| Within this email, you’ll find | Within this email, you’ll find the necessary forms to complete your registration. |
| Contained within this message is | Contained within this message is the information regarding your account update. |
| Bound with this letter is | Bound with this letter is the official certificate of completion. |
| Included in this email is | Included in this email is the itinerary for the upcoming business trip. |
| With this correspondence, you will see | With this correspondence, you will see the updated terms and conditions. |
| I’ve included | I’ve included a copy of the invoice for your records. |
| This email contains | This email contains all the relevant information about the software update. |
| The following documents are attached | The following documents are attached: the contract, the invoice, and the receipt. |
| For your convenience, I’ve attached | For your convenience, I’ve attached a PDF version of the document. |
| Refer to the attached document for | Refer to the attached document for detailed instructions on how to install the software. |
| Please find the document attached regarding | Please find the document attached regarding the upcoming policy changes. |
| The document attached pertains to | The document attached pertains to the new marketing strategy. |
| This email contains the attached | This email contains the attached report summarizing the sales figures for the quarter. |
| The file attached provides | The file attached provides a comprehensive overview of the project. |
| Enclosed, you will discover | Enclosed, you will discover all the information you need to proceed with the application. |
| You will see enclosed | You will see enclosed the finalized version of the presentation. |
| Attached herewith | Attached herewith the list of recommended suppliers. |
Table 2: Courteous Alternatives
This table showcases courteous alternatives to “Please find enclosed,” which add a polite and respectful tone to your communication, making the recipient feel valued and appreciated.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Please see attached | Please see attached the revised proposal for your consideration. |
| Kindly find attached | Kindly find attached the requested documents for your review. |
| I am pleased to enclose | I am pleased to enclose the final report, which reflects all your feedback. |
| We are happy to provide you with | We are happy to provide you with the information you requested regarding our services. |
| I would like to include | I would like to include a brochure detailing our product offerings. |
| I hope you find the attached | I hope you find the attached guide helpful in setting up your new account. |
| For your convenience, I have included | For your convenience, I have included a prepaid return envelope. |
| We have taken the liberty of including | We have taken the liberty of including some additional information that may be of interest. |
| I am delighted to attach | I am delighted to attach a copy of the award certificate you have earned. |
| With our compliments, we enclose | With our compliments, we enclose a small gift as a token of our appreciation. |
| We are honored to include | We are honored to include your name on our list of esteemed donors. |
| I am grateful to enclose | I am grateful to enclose the signed agreement, finalizing our partnership. |
| We are pleased to provide | We are pleased to provide the necessary documentation to support your claim. |
| I trust you will find the attached | I trust you will find the attached analysis insightful for your decision-making. |
| Please accept the attached | Please accept the attached apology for any inconvenience caused. |
| We are delighted to share | We are delighted to share the success story of our collaboration in the attached report. |
| I would be grateful if you could review | I would be grateful if you could review the attached document at your earliest convenience. |
| We are honored to present | We are honored to present the attached proposal for your consideration. |
| I am pleased to submit | I am pleased to submit the attached application for your review. |
| We are happy to enclose | We are happy to enclose the requested information and look forward to your feedback. |
| I kindly request you to review | I kindly request you to review the attached document and provide your comments. |
| We are grateful for the opportunity to enclose | We are grateful for the opportunity to enclose our company profile. |
| I am privileged to attach | I am privileged to attach the recommendation letter from my previous employer. |
| We are honored to provide you with | We are honored to provide you with the exclusive preview of our upcoming product. |
Table 3: Formal Alternatives
This table provides formal alternatives to “Please find enclosed,” which are suitable for official correspondence, legal documents, and other contexts where a high degree of formality is required.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Herewith enclosed | Herewith enclosed are the original documents pertaining to the case. |
| Please accept the enclosed | Please accept the enclosed payment as full settlement of the outstanding invoice. |
| The attached document contains | The attached document contains confidential information and should be handled with care. |
| Pursuant to our agreement, we have enclosed | Pursuant to our agreement, we have enclosed the signed contract and all relevant appendices. |
| We hereby submit | We hereby submit the required documents for your consideration and approval. |
| The following is/are attached | The following are attached: the legal affidavit and supporting evidence. |
| Enclosed for your perusal is/are | Enclosed for your perusal are the audited financial statements for the fiscal year. |
| We have duly enclosed | We have duly enclosed all the necessary forms for the application process. |
| Attached hereto | Attached hereto is the official notification of the policy change. |
| We are transmitting herewith | We are transmitting herewith the electronic files containing the project deliverables. |
| This correspondence includes | This correspondence includes the original deed and all associated legal documents. |
| Please find appended | Please find appended the supplementary information as requested. |
| We are submitting for your review | We are submitting for your review the comprehensive report detailing the findings. |
| This communication incorporates | This communication incorporates the necessary documentation for your records. |
| We have included for your attention | We have included for your attention the updated terms and conditions. |
| Please acknowledge receipt of the enclosed | Please acknowledge receipt of the enclosed documents upon your earliest convenience. |
| We direct your attention to the attached | We direct your attention to the attached exhibit for a detailed overview. |
| The undermentioned document is attached | The undermentioned document is attached for your immediate action. |
| We are forwarding herewith | We are forwarding herewith the complete set of plans and specifications. |
| Enclosed please find | Enclosed please find the comprehensive invoice detailing all charges. |
| We are providing herein | We are providing herein the detailed analysis of the market trends. |
| The document provided with this letter | The document provided with this letter contains the official terms of the agreement. |
| Included with this communication | Included with this communication are all the exhibits referenced in the legal case. |
| We are submitting herewith | We are submitting herewith the final audit report for your evaluation. |
Table 4: Informal Alternatives
This table presents informal alternatives to “Please find enclosed,” which are suitable for internal communications, emails to colleagues, or situations where a more relaxed tone is acceptable.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I’ve attached | I’ve attached the updated file for you. |
| You’ll find attached | You’ll find attached the document we discussed earlier. |
| See attached | See attached for the details. |
| I’m sending you | I’m sending you the report right now. |
| Here’s | Here’s the file you asked for. |
| Check out the attached | Check out the attached presentation when you get a chance. |
| The file is attached | The file is attached for your convenience. |
| I put together | I put together a quick summary and attached it below. |
| I’m including | I’m including the link in this email and the file attached. |
| Take a look at | Take a look at the attached document and let me know what you think. |
| I’ve included a link to | I’ve included a link to the article in this email. |
| Sharing with you | Sharing with you the presentation slides for tomorrow’s meeting. |
| Attached is the link to | Attached is the link to the training video. |
| FYI, I’ve attached | FYI, I’ve attached the notes from our last meeting. |
| Attached for your info | Attached for your info is the company’s new policy. |
| I sent you | I sent you the file as an attachment. |
| Here’s the attachment | Here’s the attachment with all the details. |
| I’m also attaching | I’m also attaching a few extra documents for your reference. |
| You can find it attached | You can find it attached to this email. |
| I’m adding | I’m adding the document to this email. |
| Find the attachment below | Find the attachment below for more information. |
| The attachment contains | The attachment contains everything you need to know. |
| I’m enclosing | I’m enclosing the invoice for your payment. |
Table 5: Specific Alternatives
This table features specific alternatives to “Please find enclosed,” tailored to particular situations or types of documents. These options provide more context and clarity, making the communication more effective.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| For your review, I have attached | For your review, I have attached the market analysis report. |
| Attached is the report you requested | Attached is the report you requested on the sales performance for Q3. |
| Please find attached the updated version of | Please find attached the updated version of the project timeline. |
| I am sending you the completed | I am sending you the completed application form for your signature. |
| The enclosed document outlines | The enclosed document outlines the key changes to our privacy policy. |
| For your approval, I have included | For your approval, I have included the budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year. |
| Attached is the document detailing | Attached is the document detailing the new employee benefits package. |
| I am providing the following attached | I am providing the following attached documents for your reference: the contract and the invoice. |
| The attached file contains the | The attached file contains the presentation slides for the conference. |
| I have enclosed the necessary | I have enclosed the necessary forms to complete your registration. |
| Please see the attached for more information on | Please see the attached for more information on our new product offerings. |
| You will find attached the details regarding | You will find attached the details regarding the upcoming training session. |
| I have attached a copy of | I have attached a copy of the receipt for your records. |
| The attached documents include | The attached documents include the terms and conditions and the privacy policy. |
| Attached is the summary of | Attached is the summary of the key findings from the research study. |
| I am enclosing the signed | I am enclosing the signed contract, as per our agreement. |
| Please find attached the invoice for | Please find attached the invoice for the services rendered. |
| Enclosed is the list of | Enclosed is the list of attendees for the workshop. |
| I have included the agenda for | I have included the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting. |
| Attached is the report on | Attached is the report on the project’s progress. |
| Enclosed is a detailed description of | Enclosed is a detailed description of the new features added to the software. |
| Please find the attachment that contains | Please find the attachment that contains the answers to your questions. |
| I have attached the presentation about | I have attached the presentation about the new marketing strategy. |
Usage Rules
When choosing an alternative to “Please find enclosed,” consider the following usage rules to ensure clarity, professionalism, and appropriateness:
- Formality: Match the level of formality to the context of your communication. Use formal alternatives for official documents and correspondence with superiors, and informal alternatives for internal communications and emails to colleagues.
- Clarity: Ensure that your chosen phrase clearly indicates the presence of attached documents or items. Avoid ambiguity or vagueness.
- Specificity: When possible, use specific alternatives that provide more context about the attached documents. This helps the recipient understand the purpose of the attachment.
- Conciseness: While it’s important to be clear, avoid using overly verbose or complicated phrases. Choose an alternative that is concise and easy to understand.
- Audience: Consider your audience when selecting an alternative. What is their level of familiarity with you and the subject matter? Choose a phrase that is appropriate for their understanding and expectations.
- Placement: Typically, the phrase indicating the attachment should be placed at the beginning or near the beginning of your email or letter, so the recipient is immediately aware of the attachment.
- Consistency: Maintain consistency in your choice of phrase throughout your communication. Avoid switching between different alternatives unless there is a specific reason to do so.
Common Mistakes
Even experienced writers can make mistakes when using alternatives to “Please find enclosed.” Here are some common errors to avoid:
- Using overly formal language in informal contexts: This can make your communication sound stilted and unnatural.
- Using overly informal language in formal contexts: This can damage your credibility and professionalism.
- Being ambiguous or vague about the attachment: This can confuse the recipient and delay the communication process.
- Using incorrect grammar or word order: This can make your communication sound unprofessional and difficult to understand.
- Repeating the same phrase too frequently: This can make your writing sound repetitive and uninspired.
Correct vs. Incorrect Examples:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Please find enclosed, I hope you like it. | Please find enclosed the report. | The additional clause is unnecessary. |
| Attached is, like, the thing you asked for. | Attached is the document you requested. | Avoid overly casual language in professional communication. |
| Enclosed is the thing. | Enclosed is the invoice. | Be specific about what is enclosed. |
| I have attached, which you should see. | I have attached the presentation. | Avoid redundant phrases. |
| Find enclosed please the document. | Please find enclosed the document. | Maintain correct word order. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of alternatives to “Please find enclosed” with these practice exercises. Choose the most appropriate alternative for each context.
Exercise 1: Multiple Choice
Choose the best alternative to “Please find enclosed” for each sentence.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1. ______ the contract for your signature. | a) See attached b) I’ve attached c) Herewith enclosed d) You’ll find attached | d) You’ll find attached |
| 2. ______ the updated report. | a) I’m sending you b) Enclosed is c) Check out the attached d) Here’s | b) Enclosed is |
| 3. ______ the details. | a) The file is attached b) I put together c) See attached d) I’m including | c) See attached |
| 4. ______ the presentation slides. | a) Sharing with you b) Attached is the link to c) FYI, I’ve attached d) Attached for your info | a) Sharing with you |
| 5. ______ the invoice for your payment. | a) I sent you b) Here’s the attachment c) I’m also attaching d) I’m enclosing | d) I’m enclosing |
| 6. For your review, ____ the market analysis report. | a) I am sending you b) I have enclosed c) I have attached d) You will find attached | c) I have attached |
| 7. ______ the report you requested on the sales performance for Q3. | a) Attached is b) For your approval c) The file is attached d) You will find attached | a) Attached is |
| 8. ______ the updated version of the project timeline. | a) Included is b) Please find attached c) Here is d) I have enclosed | b) Please find attached |
| 9. We ______ the required documents for your consideration and approval. | a) hereby submit b) herewith enclosed c) are sending d) attach | a) hereby submit |
| 10. ______ are the original documents pertaining to the case. | a) I am sending b) Herewith enclosed c) Check out the attached d) Attached is | b) Herewith enclosed |
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate alternative to “Please find enclosed.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. _________ the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting. | I have included |
| 2. _________ a copy of the receipt for your records. | I have attached |
| 3. _________ the list of attendees for the workshop. | Enclosed is |
| 4. _________ the invoice for the services rendered. | Please find attached |
| 5. _________ the new features added to the software. | Enclosed is a detailed description of |
| 6. _________ the answers to your questions. | Please find the attachment that contains |
| 7. _________ the presentation about the new marketing strategy. | I have attached |
| 8. _________ the market analysis report for your review. | For your review, I have attached |
| 9. _________ the contract for your signature. | You’ll find attached |
| 10. _________ the details. | See attached |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider these more complex aspects of using alternatives to “Please find enclosed”:
- Cultural Sensitivity: Different cultures may have different expectations regarding the level of formality in business communication. Research the cultural norms of your audience before choosing an alternative.
- Legal Implications: In legal contexts, the specific wording used to indicate the presence of attached documents can have legal implications. Consult with a legal professional to ensure that your chosen phrase is appropriate.
- Branding: Some companies may have specific guidelines or preferences regarding the language used in their communications. Follow these guidelines to maintain consistency with the company’s brand.
- Tone and Voice: Consider the overall tone and voice of your communication when choosing an alternative. The phrase should align with the overall message you are trying to convey.
FAQ
- Q: Is “Please find enclosed” outdated?A: While “Please find enclosed” is a traditional phrase, it is not necessarily outdated. However, using a variety of alternatives can make your writing sound more engaging and professional.
- Q: Can I use “Attached” instead of “Please find enclosed”?A: Yes, “Attached” is a common and acceptable alternative, particularly in informal or semi-formal contexts. However, it is often used in conjunction with another phrase, such as “See attached” or “I have attached.”
- Q: What is the most formal alternative to “Please find enclosed”?A: “Herewith enclosed” is one of the most formal alternatives. However, it is also somewhat archaic and may not be appropriate for all situations. “Please accept the enclosed” is also very formal.
- Q: What is the most informal alternative to “Please find enclosed”?A: “See attached” is one of the most informal alternatives. It is suitable for internal communications and emails to colleagues.
- Q:Q: How can I avoid sounding repetitive when using alternatives to “Please find enclosed”?A: Vary your language by using a mix of direct, courteous, formal, and informal alternatives. Also, try to tailor your phrase to the specific context of the communication.
- Q: Is it necessary to always use an alternative to “Please find enclosed”?A: No, it is not always necessary. “Please find enclosed” is still a perfectly acceptable phrase. However, using alternatives can make your writing more engaging and professional.
- Q: How do I choose the right alternative for a specific situation?A: Consider the formality of the situation, your relationship with the recipient, and the specific type of document you are attaching. Choose an alternative that is appropriate for all of these factors.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “Please find enclosed” is a valuable skill for anyone who wants to improve their professional communication. By understanding the nuances of different phrases and choosing the most appropriate option for each context, you can make your writing more clear, engaging, and professional.
This guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of various alternatives, along with usage rules, common mistakes to avoid, and practice exercises to help you hone your skills. Use this knowledge to diversify your vocabulary, enhance your communication, and make a stronger impression in your written correspondence.
Remember to consider the formality of the situation, your relationship with the recipient, and the specific type of document you are attaching when choosing an alternative. With practice and attention to detail, you can confidently and effectively communicate the presence of attached documents in any professional setting.