Encirclement

Encirclement refers to the act of surrounding or enclosing someone or something, typically military forces, with a ring of forces. It implies a complete or near-complete blockade, cutting off supply lines and communication. The purpose is often to isolate and ultimately overwhelm the encircled entity, forcing surrender or destruction. The term is often used in strategic discussions of military campaigns, but it can be extended metaphorically to describe any situation of being surrounded or constrained.

Encirclement meaning with examples

• The general ordered a swift encirclement of the enemy army, hoping to trap them in the valley before reinforcements arrived. This maneuver aimed to prevent their retreat and force a decisive battle. Success would depend on the speed and coordination of the flanking units. Failure would mean a costly protracted war.
• The protesters planned an encirclement of the government building, intending to draw attention to their demands and disrupt operations. The goal was to bring their grievances to the forefront and showcase the scale of public discontent. Authorities prepared to manage the situation to maintain order.
• A prolonged economic downturn led to the financial encirclement of many small businesses, as consumer spending declined and credit became scarce. With dwindling revenue streams and mounting debts, the firms struggled to stay afloat and faced the risk of closing their doors. This created great hardship for the owners.
• During the siege of the castle, the enemy forces maintained a tight encirclement, preventing any supplies from reaching the defenders. The castle residents were left to fend for themselves, hoping for a rescue or a strategic breakthrough to regain freedom. This was a slow, deliberate tactic.